UNFPA Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Muriel Mafico (Right) and the delegate of Nigeria at PAIMUN 2026, Mojoyin Makinde.
Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund,(UNFPA) in Nigeria,Ms Muriel Mafico, has urged youths in the country to be conscious of what they do today as the world they are stimulating today “is the world you will lead tomorrow. ”
As a result,he urged youths to strive to be ” the innovators who design solutions that reach the last child and be the diplomats who bridge divides in a fractured world.”
Ms. Muriel Mafico, spoke at the second session of the Premiere Academy International Model United Nations (PAIMUN) General Assembly, organised in collaboration with the UN Information Centre (UNIC) in Nigeria.
Mafico, who represented the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator a.i. in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, urged the young people at the conference held on 14 May 2025, at the United Nations House Abuja, to be the leaders who ensure that digital transformation does not deepen inequality but eliminates it.
“The future of education in Nigeria and indeed the future of sustainable development will not be written by technology alone. It will be written by you.” She said.
Mafico acknowledged that through platforms like PAIMUN, UNIC is empowering young people to understand diplomacy, embrace multilateralism, and learn the art of dialogue, tolerance, and consensus-building.
The theme, “Digital Transformation of the Educational Sector as a Driver of Sustainable Development”, she noted, was not only timely, but also transformational.
She acknowledged that “We are living through one of the most defining revolutions in human history: a digital revolution that is reshaping education, economies, and entire societies.”
According to her, knowledge travels faster today than ever before, as a lesson can reach a classroom in Lagos, a village in Borno, and a refugee camp all at once, bridging the education gap. “Yet, this promise is matched by a stark reality: millions are still being left behind.” She observed.
In a video message, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has assured that at the United Nations, they are committed to opening more doors for young people to shape the decisions that affect their lives.
“Our world is in flux: power is shifting, divisions are deepening, and our future is clouded by climate chaos and runaway technologies. But together, we can turn crisis into opportunity. By taking part in a Model United Nations simulation, you are learning what it takes to build a better world.” He said.
Guterres thanked the PAIMUN delegates for believing in the power of global cooperation. “Together, we can build a world of dignity, justice, and peace for all.” He concluded.
In his statement, the President of the PAIMUN General Assembly, Timilehin Adewuyi, emphasised that sustainable development cannot be achieved where educational access remains unequal. “Therefore, governments, international organizations, and private institutions must work collectively to bridge the digital divide and ensure that no learner is left behind in this technological revolution.”
He called on the delegates to remain committed to shaping policies that harness digital education as a catalyst for sustainable development worldwide, adding that by embracing technology responsibly and inclusively, the next generation would be empowered to drive economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability.
The PAIMUN 2026 Secretary General, Chidinma Udeji, urged UN Member States to move beyond just “giving out computers” and focus on intensive training for teachers so they become digital experts.
“Member States should create community technology centers that provide free internet and solar-powered devices to students in underserved areas; and encourage indigenous local tech experts to build apps and lessons that reflect indigenous languages and history.”
In his opening remarks, the Principal of Premiere Academy, Mr Christopher Akinsowon, emphasised that education remained the bedrock of national development, and digital transformation had become the bridge connecting education to sustainable progress.
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“Through technology, students can access global resources, participate in virtual collaborations, develop critical problem-solving skills, and compete confidently on the international stage.” He said, “Today, as delegates representing different nations, you are expected to think beyond borders, cultures, and personal interests. You are called upon to propose practical, innovative, and sustainable solutions to some of the most pressing educational challenges facing our world today.”
The delegates, through consensus, passed the PAIMUN General Assembly resolution A/2/01, which called on UN Member States to integrate comprehensive digital transformation strategies into national education systems, aligned with international commitments.
The resolution also supported the implementation of digital literacy and capacity-building programmes for educators and learners; and recommended strengthening of public-private partnerships to foster innovation in educational technologies and expand access to digital tools; among others.
