COSMUN took place from March 1-4 at the Columbus School high school building with approximately  250 participants from other schools in Medellin and one school from Barranquilla.

This year, COSMUN consisted of 10 commissions and was organized considering the biosecurity measures requested from the government. 

“I would say that it was a tough comeback because we hadn’t done it for two years, but it was so great I think people enjoyed it. And we got a lot out of that experience,” Sofia Valencia, Secretary-General of COSMUN 2022, said. 

Six commissions were in Spanish and the other four in English. Issues included the engagement of criminal groups in cyberspace, the increased trafficking of falsified medical products and human genetic modification.  

“I have known many students that after they’ve been in COSMUN, it changes the way they see themselves, and they find out that this is what they want to do in their life. So I think that has that amazing effect,” Juan David Lopez, High School Principal, said. 

The Columbus School has had its own MUN model since 1999; this year, the event transformed by the inclusion of 5th grade students for the first time. 

“I think that on the one hand, they learn political-diplomatic skills, but also they learn many other skills such as communication, self-confidence, resilience, they learn how to deal with rejection and frustration,” Lopez said. 

New teachers such as Press Sponsor Camilo Hoyos from the Columbus School were a part of the event while others continued participating in how they have done for many years. 

“I noticed that all the participants were very passionate about it. They took their role as models. Also, I believe they were very professional; I mean, they dressed up properly in accordance with their situation. And I think they, in general, did an excellent job,”  Hoyos said. 

MUN models focuses on preparing students to develop leadership, research, writing, public speaking, and problem-solving skills. After over six months of planning for the event, four days full of education and fun. 

“I think that is special because it helps you grow as a student and as a person because it allows you to train your abilities. And your skills as a speaker, as a diplomat, and learn a lot, and it helps you gain skills that will be useful in your adult life,” Valencia said.

COSMUN 2022 continues using academic and logistical excellence, fostering entrepreneurial and innovative leadership in its participants.

“I think it’s tough to describe it in one word, but personally for me, it’s something that I even like mentioned in my opening speech, I would say I would describe it as grid or passion meaning grids is a synonym of passion,” Valencia said.