This summer, OG returned to India for the third year of Oxford Global MUN India, hosted at the beautiful FLAME University campus in Pune as part of the MU20 Knowledge Festival. From exploring the vibrant streets of Mumbai and sampling delicious Indian cuisine to leading action-packed committee sessions and enjoying spectacular cultural celebrations, the trip was an unforgettable experience for the OG team.
This year's conference also marked an exciting milestone for OG, with our largest international team to date! Secretary-General Natalie and Directors-General Luca and Eeshani were joined by Chairs Amani, Aaron, Abhipsa, Agnes, Benjamin, India, Kokil, Olly, Oskar, Tomi, Tom, Roxi and Shreshtha.
Read on to discover some of the team's highlights!
The OG team after a few days of sightseeing in Mumbai
The adventure began in Mumbai, where the team received a warm welcome before setting off to explore India's bustling financial and cultural capital. Over several days, the team visited some of the city's most iconic landmarks, strolling along the famous Marine Drive, admiring the artwork at Jehangir Art Gallery, and braving the rain to visit the magnificent Gateway of India and neighbouring Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.
Braving the rain to see the Gateway of India
Venturing further afield, the team explored the lively neighbourhood of Bandra, taking in the coastal views from Bandra Bandstand and stopping by Mannat, the famous residence of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. Shopping along the bustling Linking Road was another highlight, with some team members picking up Indian cricket shirts as souvenirs. The team also enjoyed discovering Mumbai's rich cultural heritage, visiting temples including ISKCON Juhu and taking rickshaws to explore the historic Mahakali Caves.
Refuelling with chai and vada pav
The team also made the most of Mumbai’s fantastic food scene, sampling a wide range of local dishes and specialities. A street food tour introduced some of the team to the city's famous snacks, alongside the experience of travelling on Mumbai's local trains. A dosa lunch, a traditional thali dinner and plenty of refreshing mango lassis quickly became team favourites, while stops for streetside chai offered welcome breaks between sightseeing adventures. And naturally, the trip wouldn't have been complete without an evening of karaoke!
Following an exciting few days in Mumbai, the team embarked on a road trip through the countryside of Maharashtra, accompanied by a soundtrack of favourite Bollywood songs, before arriving at the FLAME University campus. After settling in and meeting their Assistant Directors, the OG team were ready to welcome delegates for Oxford Global MUN India 2026. The conference opened with an inspiring Opening Ceremony, featuring an impressive flag procession and a lively atmosphere that set the tone for the days ahead.
Tea break for the team between committee sessions
Across the conference's 15 committees, delegates tackled some of the world's most pressing issues, from global health and human rights in WHO and UNHRC to international security in DISEC. From passionate speeches and fierce negotiations to dramatic crisis developments and the drafting of resolutions, committee sessions were filled with impressive displays of diplomacy, creativity and collaboration. Our Chairs thoroughly enjoyed guiding delegates through these discussions, encouraging them to challenge their perspectives and work towards meaningful solutions.
Insight session about studying in the UK
Beyond committee sessions, delegates also had the opportunity to attend an insight session on UK university admissions, gaining valuable advice on studying in the United Kingdom. The delicious high tea breaks at FLAME University were also very popular, offering a welcome chance to relax and catch up between busy committee sessions. For the OG team, there was plenty of fun outside the committee rooms too, with go-karting and bowling among the highlights!
One of the most memorable evenings was the dazzling Global Village Gala. With stunning decorations, lively cultural celebrations and a wonderful atmosphere, the event captured the conference's international spirit. Several members of the OG team embraced the occasion by wearing traditional saris, and everyone enjoyed joining delegates on the dance floor for an evening filled with music and dancing.
Members of the OG team at the Global Village Gala during the MU20 Knowledge Festival
The conference concluded with a celebratory Closing Ceremony, recognising the exceptional achievements of delegates who had demonstrated outstanding leadership, diplomacy, public speaking and teamwork throughout the event. It was wonderful to see the hard work of so many talented young people rewarded, and to reflect on everything they had accomplished over the course of the conference.
Oxford Global MUN India 2026 was an incredible experience, made even more special by the warmth and hospitality we received throughout our time in Mumbai and Pune. We are hugely grateful to MU20 School of Opportunity and FLAME University for their organisation, generosity and support, and to every delegate, Assistant Director and member of the organising team who helped make the conference such a success.
From monsoon adventures and delicious food to powerful moments of diplomacy and connection, the OG team returned home with wonderful memories. We look forward to returning to India soon!
