What You Need to Know
President Dharambeer Gokhool of Mauritius emphasized the vital role of youth in diplomacy and global cooperation during the UoMMUN conference. He praised their engagement and maturity, highlighting the importance of education in fostering responsible citizenship and ethical leadership. The event showcased the potential of young people to contribute to a peaceful and sustainable future.
Africa-Press – Mauritius. The President of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, highlighted the crucial role of youth engagement in diplomacy, dialogue and global cooperation in building a more peaceful and sustainable world.
He was speaking, yesterday, at the closing ceremony of the 2nd Edition of the University of Mauritius Model United Nations (UoMMUN) conference held at the Paul Octave Wiéhé Auditorium in Réduit. The Minister of Housing and Lands, Mr Shakeel Ahmed Yousuf Abdul Razack Mohamed; the Minister of Education and Human Resource, Dr Mahend Gungapersad; the Junior Minister at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Ms Anishta Babooram; the Member of Parliament, Mr Mohamed Ehsan Juman; the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mauritius, Professor Mohammad Issack Santally; and other personalities attended the ceremony.
In his keynote address, the President applauded the youth for their exemplary participation, discipline and intellectual engagement throughout the three-day conference. He highlighted their maturity in debate, openness to differing perspectives and strong collaborative spirit, describing these attributes as clear indicators of a generation poised to lead with responsibility and vision. Their dedication and enthusiasm, he noted, inspire confidence that Mauritius’ future will be guided by capable and globally aware citizens.
The President also commended the participants for their intellectual rigour, civic-mindedness and keen sense of global responsibility. Emphasising the broader purpose of education, he stated that it must go beyond academic achievement to foster critical thinking, ethical leadership and active citizenship. He further underlined that the conference provided valuable practical insight into the principles of multilateralism championed by the United Nations.
He further underscored that Mauritius, as a Small Island Developing State, remains firmly committed to promoting diplomacy, partnership and international solidarity in the pursuit of peace, sustainable development and human rights.
Encouraging students to uphold the spirit of dialogue cultivated during the conference, the President expressed confidence that the nation’s youth will play a pivotal role in enhancing Mauritius’s international standing and advancing global progress founded on peace, justice and shared humanity.
For his part, Professor Santally praised the initiative, noting that it contributes not only to students’ academic advancement but also to their holistic development. He noted that platforms such as UoMMUN equip students with essential skills, confidence and a sense of responsibility, enabling them to transition into the professional world as capable and ethical individuals ready to contribute to national progress. He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the University of Mauritius to empowering young people to become the nation’s future torchbearers, endowed with the most appropriate qualities, competencies and leadership aptitudes.
It is noted that the best delegates, delegation and speakers were awarded shields on the occasion.
Mauritius has a rich history of promoting education and civic engagement among its youth. The University of Mauritius Model United Nations (UoMMUN) conference serves as a platform for students to engage in diplomatic discussions and develop critical skills. This initiative aligns with the country’s commitment to fostering a generation capable of addressing global challenges through dialogue and collaboration. As a Small Island Developing State, Mauritius recognizes the importance of youth in shaping its international relations and sustainable development goals.
