The Student Diplomat Program / Jr. Model United Nations is a five-month journey introducing middle school students from around the Greater Philadelphia area to the world of international relations and cultural diplomacy. Students engage directly with a pressing issue of global concern and develop research and collaboration skills as they seek solutions to a pressing global issue.

As participants in the program, students will: (1) explore the mission, structure, and function of the United Nations; (2) learn how to write, amend and defend a policy resolution; (3) apply their research and critical thinking skills to specific global issues; (4) learn the role of diplomacy and deliberation in international affairs; and (5) develop skills in conflict resolution, problem-solving and cross-cultural communication.

This year's topic is "Ensuring Healthy Lives and Promoting Wellbeing for All". The topic will be divided into 6 subcommittees that align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #3: 1). Reducing Maternal Mortality and Protecting Children; 2). Fighting Communicable Diseases; 3). Reducing Illness and Death from Pollution; 4). Achieving Universal Health Coverage; 5.) Expanding Universal Access to Vaccines; 6.) Supporting the Health Workforce in Developing Nations. Your school will be assigned one of these subcommittees for intensive study.

Due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020-2021 Student Diplomat / Jr. Model UN program will be run in a virtual format. Please read though the application in its entirety to find updates regarding a new program model, pricing, and program dates.

We strive to include the greatest number of students possible in our program while continuing to provide quality support and educational resources. Thus, the Junior Model UN program allows for a minimum of 2 students and a maximum of 60 students per school. The program generally fills quickly, and if you have any questions regarding capacity or school-specific needs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Eric Bumbaca, Director of Student Programs, at ebumbaca@wacphila.org