SIM’Université, full-scale political simulation and negotiation for students in Occitanie

[Press release] - Published on November 14, 2024 in Press Room, Environmental Issues and Social Responsibility

On November 29 and 30, 2024, the Faculty of Economics at the University of Montpellier will host the^8th edition of SIM'Université, a life-size role-playing game organized by "les ateliers ludosophiques" and supported by the UM. This event will bring together more than a hundred students from Occitanie to simulate debates and negotiations on major political and societal issues.

This year's theme will be "How can water be managed sustainably in Europe in the context of climate change?", a crucial issue for the future of our planet. Participants will play the roles of MEPs, ministers, lobbyists, and journalists, and will simulate the functioning of European institutions such as the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union. Discussions will focus on economic, social, geostrategic, and environmental aspects, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary view of issues related to water management.

Inspired by Model United Nations (MUN), this educational program is free and open to all students in Occitanie. It aims to introduce students to international relations, public speaking, and negotiation techniques, while stimulating their critical thinking skills. Students will have the opportunity to develop communication, analysis, and problem-solving skills that are essential for their future careers.

SIM’Universités brings together various university courses, promoting an interdisciplinary approach. A half-day preparation session on November 29 will enable all participants to acquire the necessary knowledge about European institutions and the roles to be played. This interactive and fun preparatory session is designed to maximize engagement and understanding for students.

The ludosophical workshops, created in 2016, invent fun but serious educational tools, such as escape games, philosophical games, and role-playing games. Their goal is to use games as a powerful tool for understanding today's world and imagining tomorrow's.

The event 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 at 9:30 a.m. on November 30, followed by a day of debates and negotiations until 5:30 p.m. The day will feature presentations and constructive discussions, offering an immersive and educational experience.