SIM’Université 2025: Students in Occitanie immerse themselves in a political simulation on sustainable water management

[Press release] - Published on November 17, 2025 in Press Room, Environmental Issues and Social Responsibility

On November 28 and 29, 2025, the Faculty of Economics at the University of Montpellier will host the^9th edition of SIM'Université, a life-size role-playing game organized by Les Ateliers Ludosophiques and supported by the University of Montpellier. This event will bring together more than a hundred students from all over Occitanie to debate and negotiate a major issue: "How can water be managed sustainably in Europe in the context of climate change?"

Over two days, participants will take on the roles of MEPs, ministers, lobbyists, and journalists to simulate the workings of European institutions such as the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union. Debates will focus on the economic, social, geostrategic, and environmental aspects of water management, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to this crucial issue.

Inspired by Model United Nations (MUN), the SIM’Université program is free and open to all students in Occitanie. It aims to develop communication, negotiation, analysis, and problem-solving skills, while promoting critical thinking and understanding of international issues. A half-day preparation session, organized on November 28, will allow participants to acquire the necessary knowledge about European institutions and the roles they will play, in a fun and participatory approach.

Founded in 2016, Ateliers Ludosophiques designs innovative educational tools that combine play and learning: escape games, philosophical games, role-playing games, etc. Their goal is to use play as a tool for understanding today's world and imagining tomorrow's.

The 2025 edition of SIM’Université is supported by the Occitanie Region, the University of Montpellier, Paul-Valéry Montpellier 3 University, and the University of Toulouse. The opening ceremony will be held on November 29 at 9:30 a.m. at the Faculty of Economics, followed by a day of debates and negotiations until 5:30 p.m., punctuated by presentations and constructive discussions.