U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership 2026

Hosted by McMaster University in Canada, the U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership is a 5-day onsite programme that connects Postgraduate students from diverse academic disciplines to an enriching experience focused on sustainability, leadership, and global impact. 

About the programme

Building on existing programmes and modules delivered at U21 institutions, the U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership aims to provide Postgraduate students from U21 member institutions with the skills and experience to develop and implement impactful sustainability policies, equipping them with critical skills in policy analysis, development, and implementation.

Participants will gain hands-on experience and practical insights into global sustainability challenges and solutions through

• keynote lectures,
• workshops,
• field visits,
• case study analysis and
• project collaboration.

The programme aims to cultivate a network of future leaders committed to driving sustainable development and policy innovation.

Key Details

• Date: 13 to 17 July, 2026
• Location: McMaster University, Canada
• Eligibility: Postgraduate students from any disciplines
• Programme Fee: Covered by Hosts*

*Participants are required to cover their own travel, accommodation and subsistence costs.

Anticipated Outcomes

• Analyze and develop sustainability policies using real-world case studies.  
• Demonstrate an enhanced understanding of global sustainability challenges, particularly those aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  
• Exhibit strengthened leadership and communication skills, especially in collaborative and cross-disciplinary contexts.  
• Learn from the global experiences of their peers, fostering intercultural awareness and shared innovation.  
• Gain foundational knowledge of Indigenous perspectives through training with the McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI).  
• Earn the Youth Can Sustain (YCS) Certificate.

Application

All Postgraduate students are welcomed to apply before Feb 9, 2026!

Nomination from IAO is required. Interested students should submit an application by email to goabroad@hku.hk with the following supporting documents:

• Personal Statement (up to 200 words) explaining why you are interested in the programme 
• CV
• Academic record: Official transcript/screen capture(s) of academic results from HKU Portal 

Nominees will be notified by email of the results and further registration procedures with U21 in March.

Explore

We look forward to your participation!