Launch of the Second Edition of the Model African Union in Japan

Date: Monday 3^rd March 2025
Venue: Sophia University
Time: From 1:30 to 2:30 PM
Duration: 60 Minutes
Objective:

• Present and communicate the main theme of the second edition of the Model African Union (Model AU).
• Encourage and motivate young students to participate.
• Foster mutual understanding and strengthening cooperation between young students from Japan and Africa.

Format: In person – Online Broadcasting available.
Language: English and Japanese (Simultaneous interpretation available)

Background:
The Model African Union (MAU) conference in Japan is an initiative designed to empower young students to engage in discussions on sustainable development and partnerships across African nations. The inaugural Model African Union in Japan (MAU) conference, held on August 23, 2024, as a thematic event to the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Ministerial Meeting, simulated the African Union's specialized technical committees and the summit, focusing on the theme "Youth Solutions for a Greener Africa." The event brought together 119 participants, including 73 delegates representing 32 African countries, 32 advisors, 11 rapporteurs, and 3 chairs, with students from 36 universities across 28 prefectures in Japan and virtual attendees.

Building on the success of the first edition, the co-organizers of the MAU in Japan—the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Sophia University—are launching the second edition, alongside a multidisciplinary organizing committee composed of student volunteers from both Japan and Africa.

Looking ahead, the second edition of the conference is scheduled to take place from August 20-22, 2025, in Yokohama, coinciding with the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). This year’s theme is: Inayojumuisha: Youth co-creation, Shaping Africa's Future. A compelling vision for a united, prosperous Africa, where the voices of young people play a central role in shaping the continent’s path forward.

The Model African Union Second Edition builds on the success of its inaugural edition, with a renewed commitment to fostering diversity, solidarity, and mutual understanding. This edition will focus on discussing innovative solutions for sustainable growth in African nations. The topics, selected by youth for youth, will be debated and explored by young students from both Africa and Japan, creating a platform for fresh perspectives and collaborative action.

The conference will feature three specialized technical committees:

1. STC on Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning, and Integration
Youth Engagement for Africa’s Solidarity in the Global Economy

2. STC on Youth, Culture, and Sports
Youth for Political Reformation

3. STC on Education, Science, and Technology
Building Self-Sustaining Wealth and Digital Infrastructure for Youth in Africa The launch event will showcase the impact of the Model African Union in Japan, highlighting how it has shaped its first group of participants. Through personal stories, both Japanese and African students will share their experiences from a months-long journey of learning, cultural exchange, and empowerment. This event will emphasize the lasting connections and positive influence the Model African Union fosters, bridging continents and helping to shape young leaders.