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 live-action role-playing game organized by Ateliers Ludosophiques and supported by the University of Montpellier. This event will bring together more than a hundred students from across Occitanie to debate and negotiate a major issue: “What is sustainable water management in Europe in the context of climate change?”

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

Inspired by Model United Nations (MUN), the SIM’Université program is free and open to all students in Occitanie. It aims to develop skills in communication, negotiation, analysis, and problem-solving, while fostering critical thinking and an understanding of international issues. A half-day preparatory session, scheduled for November 28, will allow participants to gain the necessary knowledge about European institutions and the roles they will assume, through a fun and interactive approach.

Founded in 2016, Ateliers Ludosophiques develops innovative educational programs that combine play and learning, such as escape games, philosophical games, and role-playing games. Their goal is to use play as a tool for understanding today’s world and imagining the world of tomorrow.

The 2025 edition of SIM’Université is supported by the Occitanie Region, the University of Montpellier, the University of Montpellier Paul-Valéry, and the University of Toulouse. The opening ceremony will take place 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., featuring presentations and constructive discussions.