The Global Studies Center, the Asian Studies Center and the Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies are pleased to host the fifth annual Asia Challenge high school simulation this year, on Thursday, February 25, 2027, in the William Pitt Union. The goal of Asia Challenge is to provide students grades 9-12 the opportunity to learn about the history, politics, economics, and cultures of Asia and the surrounding region through a global, hands-on simulation. Playing the roles of delegates to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), students will spend a day engaged in debate and negotiations over pressing issues impacting Asia, the Pacific region, and the world today. Asia Challenge will enhance students’ understanding beyond classroom learning and give them a real sense of the challenges involved in the debate and decision-making process of ESCAP.
DATE: Thursday, February 25, 2027
TIME: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm ET
LOCATION: William Pitt Union on the University of Pittsburgh campus
Certificates will be awarded to the top delegations in each room and top position papers.
Sponsored by:The University of Pittsburgh’s Global Studies Center, Asian Studies Center and the Center for Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies at the University Center for International Studies
Contact: Catherine Fratto
Contact Email: ucisengage@pitt.edu
Contact Voicemail: 412-648-7426
Register Here for Asia Challenge 2027
Registration will close on Monday, January 11 or when capacity is reached. This simulation will be run in the same manner as high school Model UN, with country and committee assignments being sent to schools within a week of the registration deadline.
To view the schedule for Asia Challenge 2027, please click: Asia Challenge Schedule 2027
Guidelines and topics for position papers for Asia Challenge 2027: Coming Soon
Sample position paper from a previous year: Coming Soon
Position papers are due by Tuesday, February 9, 2027.
