The UN Summer Academy (UNSA) fosters rich interactions on issues relevant to the work of the United Nations and its partners in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement. The theme for this year is ‘Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development’.
Introduction
The UN Summer Academy is a dynamic and engaging global forum for advancing sustainable development. For over a decade, the academy has convened exceptional groups of changemakers annually to address global challenges that the UN system and its partners from multiple sectors and regions across the world are addressing. The academy combines academic rigour with cutting-edge thinking, providing participants with innovative learning and networking opportunities.
In September 2025, the academy will once again welcome participants to engage in robust discussions and knowledge exchanges on Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development.
Objectives
Upon successfully participating in the UN Summer Academy 2025, participants will:
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of how digital transformation can be an enabler for sustainable development;
- Be able to critically examine governance and ethical considerations in the realm of data-sharing ecosystems and artificial intelligence;
- Cultivate awareness of the cultural shifts needed to foster collaboration and build trust to unlock the full potential of digital transformation as a driver of sustainable development.
Course methodology
This 5th virtual edition of academy is designed using experiential online learning methodologies that combine panel discussions featuring high-level speakers with interactive opportunities for knowledge exchange, experience sharing, and hands-on practice sessions.
Most of the virtual academy is synchronous with limited mandatory pre-readings. Participants will engage with a wide range of expert inputs during live webinars, reflect in small-groups during breakout activities, prepare for learner-led and peer-to-peer knowledge exchanges, and apply the knowledge and skills they have during co-creation activities.
This academy places a premium on fun and relationship-building. During networking sessions, participants showcase their work, play games, and engage in other social activities.
Course contents
In this year’s summer academy, participants will explore key topics in-depth through plenary sessions, applied use cases, hands-on practice sessions, and side events on trending topics. Participants will have an opportunity to present their solution to a real-world sustainable development challenge by participating in a hackathon.
Target audience
The Academy is intended for professionals with 8-15 years of experience in digital transformation, sustainable development, tech and AI, as well as UN personnel (P3-P4).
Up to 100 applicants who sign up will be selected based on their professional/academic profile and motivation statements. The selection board will make sure geographic regions, gender, and sectors – including UN and non-UN – are well represented in the cohort.
Fee information
The course fee of USD 800 for individual participants covers the following:
– Three days of online training, including a technical orientation session on how to navigate the virtual platform and use the collaborative tools for the course.
– Exclusive access to the UNSSC online social learning environment with asynchronous learning activities, background materials, and the opportunity to connect with and learn from peers.
– All course materials, references, and contacts.
How to register
Learn more about the course and register here.
