Mangaluru: The Department of Political Science and the Department of Psychology, under the School of Arts and Humanities of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, successfully hosted the third edition of the Aloysius Model United Nations (ALMUN 3.0) from December 11 to 13, 2025, bringing together students from various colleges for three days of debate, diplomacy, and leadership.

Inaugural ceremony sets tone for dialogue and diplomacy

The inaugural ceremony was held at Robert Sequeira Hall at 10.00 a.m. and was compered by Ms Iola D’Silva, beginning with a prayer led by the college choir. The dignitaries were ceremoniously escorted to the dais by Secretary-General Mr Vatscin Sai Prasad and Director General Ms Shravya Pramod.

The dignitaries included Chief Guest Sri Narwade Vinayak, Guest of Honour Rev. Fr Prashant Madtha SJ, Rector Rev. Fr Melwin Joseph Pinto SJ, Chief Advisor Dr Rose Veera D’Souza, and staff conveners Dr Shalini Aiyappa and Dr Shakila Hegde.

Delivering the welcome address, Dr Rose Veera D’Souza highlighted the importance of Model United Nations platforms in nurturing globally aware, responsible, and articulate leaders. The conference was formally inaugurated with the hoisting of committee flags, marking the commencement of five committees.

Thought-provoking addresses and formal opening

In his address, the Chief Guest emphasised the importance of active youth participation in policy-making, noting that policies must be pragmatic, realistic, and implementable to be effective. He stressed that successful governance depends not only on formulation but also on feasibility and execution.

Rev. Fr Prashant Madtha SJ, in his address, reflected on education as a continuous journey of personal growth rather than mere acquisition of knowledge. His insights resonated strongly with the values of collaboration, dialogue, and diplomacy central to the MUN process.

The Rector delivered the presidential address, following which the ceremonial gavel was handed over to Mr Vatscin Sai Prasad, officially declaring ALMUN 3.0 open. The inaugural programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms Shravya Pramod, marking the beginning of three intellectually engaging days.

Committee themes and venues

ALMUN 3.0 featured five committees hosted across the campus:

  • United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at Joseph Willy Hall deliberated on “The First Strike Dilemma: Legitimacy of Pre-emptive Warfare in the 21st Century”
  • Lok Sabha, held at Robert Sequeira Hall, discussed “Democracy for Sale? Electoral Reforms and Political Transparency”
  • Historic Crisis Committee, convened at Arupe Conference Hall, examined “The July Crisis of 1914: Diplomacy on the Brink of War”
  • Council of Westeros, hosted in Magis Hall, explored “Thrones of Fire and Ice: Power, Betrayal, and Alliances in the War for Westeros”
  • International Press Corps covered proceedings across all committees

Valedictory ceremony marks successful conclusion

The valedictory ceremony of ALMUN 3.0 was held on December 13 at 12.00 noon at Robert Sequeira Hall, marking the successful conclusion of the conference. The programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by the escorting of dignitaries including Chief Guest Mr Michael D’Souza, President of the event Dr Charles V Furtado, Chief Advisor Dr Rose Veera D’Souza, and staff conveners Dr Shalini Aiyappa and Dr Shakila Hegde.

In her welcome address, Dr Shalini Aiyappa, Head of the Department of Psychology, expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty members, organisers, and delegates. She highlighted ALMUN as a collaborative initiative between the Departments of Psychology and Political Science, reflecting its interdisciplinary nature.

Leadership, ethics, and recognition of excellence

Addressing the gathering, Mr Michael D’Souza, philanthropist and Chief Guest, urged students to be responsible and ethical citizens, encouraging them to uphold integrity and compassion even in challenging situations.

Delivering the presidential address, Dr Charles V Furtado, Director of the Administration Block, emphasised the importance of the three Ds—Debate, Diplomacy, and Dialogue—in shaping informed and responsible global citizens. He commended the delegates for their enthusiastic participation.

The ceremony concluded with prize distribution, where Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons from all five committees shared reflections and announced winners. Trophies and certificates were awarded, including a Best Delegation Trophy. Certificates were also presented to Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons in recognition of their leadership.

The vote of thanks and official declaration of closure was delivered by Mr Vatscin Sai Prasad, Secretary-General, bringing ALMUN 3.0 to a dignified and memorable close.