At the 2026 Nuclear Innovation Institute Model UN last Friday, students from across the region gathered to tackle the COP28 goal of working towards tripling global nuclear energy capacity by 2050. Stepping into the role of global climate action representatives, local students tackled the same big questions about energy, land use and emissions reductions as those being debated on the global stage.
Working in small committees, students balanced the urgency of climate action with the unique interests of their assigned nations. They debated real climate and energy directives, sharpened their skills in collaboration and diplomacy, and aimed for the same shared goal the world is pursuing: keeping global temperature rise under two degrees.
Said Pal Patel, a grade 12 student from Saugeen District Senior School (SDSS), “I think this is a great opportunity for high school students because it teaches them to consider diverse perspectives while working towards a shared agreement.”
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Students discussed global energy systems, the world’s use of land, and how future changes can reduce environmental impacts. For many, this event was a rare chance to participate in a Model UN close to home.
Grade 11 student Aria Thomas from Saugeen District Senior School described, “It’s great to meet new people from all over the region and talk with them about the future, about different ideas on how we can fix things.”
This year’s first place winners Addy Stein, Madelaine Pothier, Brooke Maxwell and Cassidee Wolfe from Grey Highlands Secondary School, took home a $500 cheque from this year’s event sponsor Accenture to participate in a future Model UN event.
“Congratulations to all of our participants at this year’s Model UN,” said Phillip Craig, NII’s Director of Education and Outreach. “Understanding energy issues is essential for this generation, and I was so proud of how well students represented countries around the world, approaching complex topics with confidence and care.”
Learn more about all of NII’s work at nii.ca.
About the Nuclear Innovation Institute: The Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII) is Canada’s premier research institute for the clean energy sector. A member-based not-for-profit organization, NII has a unique role driving sector transformation, skill development and an innovative nuclear voice. NII’s vision is a Canadian landscape that celebrates an innovative nuclear industry as an integral part of the clean energy future.
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