Dates: 2–4 September 2025
Mode: Online
Scholarship deadline: 1 August 2025
The UN Summer Academy (UNSA) is a dynamic three-day online programme organized by the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC). It brings together professionals from the UN, government, academia, civil society, and the private sector to explore sustainable development challenges and solutions in the context of the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement.
In 2025, the Academy will focus on Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development, addressing its role in advancing human rights, inclusive governance, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What to Expect
Participants will engage in:
- High-level panel discussions
- Interactive breakout sessions
- Side events on trending topics such as greening data centers, bridging the AI divide, and open-source solutions
- Networking activities and a sustainable development hackathon
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
- Understand how digital transformation supports sustainable development
- Examine ethical and governance considerations related to AI and data-sharing
- Gain insights into fostering trust and collaboration in digital transformation efforts
Course Methodology
- Delivered fully online via live (synchronous) sessions
- Includes limited pre-readings and asynchronous activities
- Encourages peer-to-peer learning and co-creation
- Emphasizes fun and community building during virtual social activities
Eligibility
- Open to mid-career professionals (8–15 years of experience) working in digital transformation and sustainable development
- Participants must commit to attending all sessions
- Up to 100 participants will be selected based on motivation, profile, and diversity factors (sector, gender, geography)
Technical Requirements
- A reliable desktop or laptop with camera, microphone, speakers, and strong internet connection
- Smartphones are not suitable due to the interactive course format
Cost & Scholarships
- Fee: USD 800 per participant
- Covers: Online training, materials, platform access, and technical support
- Participants cover their own tech and internet expenses
Scholarships:
- A limited number of full scholarships are available, funded by the State Government of North Rhine-Westphalia
- Scholarship application process:
- Register for the course at UNSSC website
- Apply for a scholarship using the same email via the Scholarship Application Form
- Scholarship deadline: 1 August 2025
For further details please see the program’s website.
