SiliconTech, the engineering institute of Silicon University, hosted the Silicon University Model United Nations (SUMUN) 2026 from 6 to 8 February, 2026.
The primary objective of SUMUN 2026 was to foster collaborative problem-solving, critical thinking, and cultural exchange among students from various institutions across Odisha. Through United Nations modelled committee simulations and Indian parliamentary debates, delegates analyzed complex global and national challenges, focusing on proactive solutions, accountability, and strategic decision-making. The event aimed to empower participants with skills in research, negotiation, leadership, and communication, while also promoting empathy, diplomacy, and cultural appreciation through rigorous committee sessions and vibrant cultural activities.
The event brought together over 150 delegates across four committees— United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), United Nations General Assembly – Disarmament and International Security Committee (UNGA-DISEC), All India Political Parties Meet (AIPPM) and International Press—with a total audience of more than 200 participants, including executive board members and the organizing committee. SUMUN 2026 provided a platform for students to engage in diplomatic simulations, debate global issues, and develop negotiation, leadership, and public speaking skills. The conference was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Former Brigadier Antaryami Pradhan, a Kargil War veteran and strategic defence expert, who shared insights from his distinguished 32-year military career, emphasizing the link between disciplined leadership and effective global diplomacy.
Delegates participated in four committees addressing diverse agendas – UNHRC focused on human rights prevention and strengthening the rule of law, DISEC debated unilateral military actions, external interference, and militarization, AIPPM simulated Indian parliamentary proceedings on the Labour Codes 2025 and Education Bill 2025, and the International Press documented the proceedings through articles and photography to ensure transparency and accountability. The intellectual intensity of these sessions was balanced by cultural highlights that celebrated the spirit of collaboration and camaraderie among participants.
The outstanding performers of SUMUN 2026 were recognized with prizes and accolades. In AIPPM, the Best Delegate award was presented to Saurodeep Debnath from Jadavpur University, while Prathamesh Mohanty of Ravenshaw University received High Commendation, and Suhani Mishra, from Ravenshaw University, was awarded Special Mention. Honourable Mentions were given to Piya Pratyasha Mohanty (CSE, Silicon University), Hidesh Kumar Jha (SOA), Nausin Akhtar (Birla Global University), and Rann Vijay Roy (Jadavpur University), while Verbal Mentions went to Akash Raj (SOA), Sunil Kumar Pradhan (SOA), Abhilash Praharaj (CST, Silicon University), and Priyam Priyadarshi (DAV Public School, Chandrasekharpur). In UNHRC, Parnika Aich (Jadavpur University) was named Best Delegate, Abhirupak Chattopadhayay (Jadavpur University) received High Commendation, and Shiladitya Banerjee (Jadavpur University) earned Special Mention. The Most Promising Delegates included Roshni (SOA), Suhani Panda and Prarthana Sahani (CSE, Silicon University), and Jayotoshree Roy and Amrutanshu Puhan (Sri Sri University), while Honourable Mentions were awarded to Preeti Parna Mohanty (SOA National Institute of Law) and Shirsha Saha (Jadavpur University).
In DISEC, Piyush Swain and Shuvajyoti Kar from KIIT were jointly awarded Best Delegate, with Parinita Mohanty (Ravenshaw University) receiving High Commendation, and Srijita Mondal (Jadavpur University) earning Special Mention. Honourable Mentions were given to Sneha Toppo and the duo Prasenjit Pradhan & Sanushree Pradhan from Madhusudan Law College, while Verbal Mentions recognized Pranav Kumar (CEN, Silicon University), Sonali Pradhan (CSE, Silicon University), and Suhana Chakraborty (Jadavpur University). For the International Press, Arpita Priyadarshinee Sahoo (ICAI) was awarded Best Photographer, Vishal Prajapati (IIT Bhubaneswar) received High Commendation for photography, Krishnamayee Pathy (ECE, Silicon University) earned Best Journalist award, and Saisidhi Samal (SOA) received High Commendation in journalism.
SUMUN 2026 concluded with a valedictory ceremony featuring Guest of Honour Mr. Dipankar Rath, an IT industry veteran, who highlighted the intersection of technology, strategy, and leadership. The event successfully combined diplomacy, academic rigor, and cultural celebration, leaving participants with enhanced skills, lasting networks, and inspiration to address global and national challenges.
