UN, Others Reaffirm Commitment To Promote Youth-Driven Tech World

The United Nations and other stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to enhance the role of young people in shaping a more peaceful, tech-driven and sustainable world, a statement issued on Friday by the United Nations Information Center (UNIC) in Abuja said.

This was the crux of discussion at the Seventh Session of the Lagos Secondary Schools Model United Nations (LASSMUN) General Assembly   with the theme ““Digital transformation of the educational sector as a driver of sustainable development”, which attracted  the United Nations representatives, senior government officials and educationists.

Welcoming participants, the President of the LASSMUN 2026 General Assembly, Damilola Ogunsanwo, of Epetedo Senior High School, Lagos Island, described LASSMUN as a leadership building exercise that goes beyond simulation. He urged delegates to take the proceedings seriously, stressing that the habits of preparation, respect for procedure and willingness to collaborate learned at Model UN mirror the realities of global governance.

According to the statement, United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, reaffirmed the UN’s confidence in young people as drivers of positive change. “By taking part in a Model United Nations simulation, you are learning what it takes to build a better world. Across the globe, young people like you are driving change through advocacy, organising, and public service,” he said.

Guterres acknowledged that ‘it takes stamina; a command of the facts; and the courage to see other perspectives, always putting the needs of the most vulnerable first.’

He said that the United Nations is committed to opening more doors for young people to shape the decisions that affect their lives. “Your energy and determination inspire me. Keep using your talents for good,” he added.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Tolani Alli Balogun, underscored the importance of education as a foundation for responsible citizenship and national development. He described LASSMUN as a practical platform for grooming disciplined, articulate and globally aware students who can engage meaningfully with contemporary challenges.

Mr Alli Balogun emphasized that the Lagos State Government remains committed to strengthening basic and secondary education, not only through infrastructure and curriculum development but also through initiatives that promote critical thinking, leadership and values-based learning.

The Commissioner also challenged delegates to see themselves as future leaders whose actions will shape society. He encouraged students to uphold the values of respect, hard work and service, stressing that leadership requires discipline, ethical conduct and a willingness to learn.

According to him, the discussions and negotiations at LASSMUN mirror Real world decision making and should inspire participants to contribute positively to their communities, schools and the nation at large.

In her opening remarks, the Tutor General/ Permanent Secretary of Lagos Education District III, Mrs Mojisola Christiana Yusuf, highlighted Model UN as an extension of classroom learning that equips students with real world skills. She pointed to public speaking, negotiation and teamwork as competencies that are increasingly vital in the 21st century, and commended UNIC for their collaboration with the six Education Districts in Lagos in encouraging students to engage with global issues at an early stage.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to initiatives like LASSMUN that promote holistic education. She stressed that leadership begins with responsibility and integrity, encouraging students to see themselves as ambassadors of positive change both within and beyond their schools.

The Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Prof. Efosa Osaghae, represented by the Institute’s Director of Research, Prof. Joshua Bolarinwa, noted that by expanding access to education, improving quality, promoting lifelong learning, and supporting innovation, digital technologies could help to address some of the most pressing challenges facing societies today.

“However, realizing this potential requires a strategic and inclusive approach that addresses existing barriers and ensures that the benefits of digital transformation are equitably distributed. This includes investing in digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and developing supportive policies and frameworks.” He said.

Prof. Osaghae added that the integration of digital technologies into education was not just a technological shift but a fundamental reimagining of how education could contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.

The Director of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Abuja, Mr Ronald Kayanja, who spoke extensively on the importance of youth participation in advancing the ideals of the United Nations, reminded delegates that young people were not only future leaders, but present day stakeholders whose ideas, energy and innovation were essential to addressing global challenges.

Kayanja emphasised that the United Nations placed young people at the heart of its work on peace, sustainable development, climate action and human rights. He encouraged students to use the Model UN platform to better understand the values enshrined in the UN Charter, including dialogue, tolerance, respect for diversity and international cooperation. He stressed that these principles are not abstract ideals, but practical tools for resolving disputes and building inclusive societies.