On July 10–11, 2026, more than 200 secondary school students from across the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area gathered at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) for the 2nd Greater Bay Area International Model United Nations (GBAIMUN) Conference, debating global challenges spanning artificial intelligence, food security and public health under the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The two-day conference drew support from leading academic and international institutions, reflecting growing interest in equipping young people to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape shaped by artificial intelligence and cross-border cooperation.
"As globalisation deepens and international issues grow more complex, young people must develop not only strong academic foundations but also critical thinking, cross-cultural communication and public policy analysis skills," said Professor Diego Fossati, Director of the Global and Area Studies Programme at HKU, in his opening remarks.
Delivering a keynote address via video message, Mr. Davor Orlič, Chief Operating Officer of the International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI) under the auspices of UNESCO, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in advancing artificial intelligence for sustainable development and commended the conference for bringing together young leaders from across the region. He noted the potential for future cooperation among international organisations, the Asia Artificial Intelligence Alliance and youth bodies to advance AI education and innovation.
The conference featured two committees—the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO)—in which delegates represented different Member States and tackled global food security, public health and the role of artificial intelligence in addressing international challenges. Students participated in policy debates, diplomatic negotiations and the drafting of resolutions, exploring solutions through the lenses of technological innovation, international cooperation and public policy.
Roy Ho, President of the Macau International Model United Nations Youth Association, said the Association has empowered young people through Model United Nations conferences, international forums and leadership training programmes. By representing different countries and debating global issues, he said, students learn to conduct research, verify information and understand diverse perspectives. Looking ahead, Ho said the Association would strengthen cooperation with international organisations and educational institutions, exploring new formats that would bring young delegates together on a larger competitive and international scale in the years ahead, helping to nurture a new generation of leaders with global perspectives and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Former Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) Chief News Anchor Cheung Man Choi shared insights from her journalism career, encouraging students to remain curious, ask thoughtful questions and speak confidently. "In the age of artificial intelligence, clear communication is just as important as independent thinking," she said, urging young people to engage with the international community in a professional manner.
Hosted on the HKU campus, the programme also featured university mock lectures, admissions talks and campus tours, offering delegates a broader experience of international education and university life.
The organising committee said it would continue to expand its international education initiatives—scaling toward a landmark international youth platform—to encourage young people to engage with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and global governance. Through these programmes, students will further develop policy analysis, public speaking, diplomatic negotiation and cross-cultural communication skills.
The Greater Bay Area International Model United Nations Conference was organised by the Macau International Model United Nations Youth Association and co-organised by the Faculty of Arts, HKU; the International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI) under the auspices of UNESCO; the Hong Kong Joint School Science Exhibition Exchange Association; the Macau Joint School Science Exhibition Youth Association; and the Asia Artificial Intelligence Alliance.
Company: Macau International Model United Nations Youth Association
Contact Person: Mr. Roy Ho
Email: info@moimun.org
Website: https://moimun.org
Telephone: +853 66870988 / +852 44106234
City: Hong Kong