The UNU-DTSD Program is a unique program that builds on an intensive collaboration between UNU-MACAU (Macau), UNU-MERIT (Maastricht, The Netherlands) and UNU-EHS (Bonn, Germany). The program is designed for scholars currently enrolled in higher education institutions or in early career research positions. 

 

Time: 30 January 2026-10 February 2026 

 

Event Contact 

For Global participants: Dr. Mindel van de Laar, cdo@merit.unu.edu 

For Chinese participants: Mrs. Min Wang, wangmin@undsdp.org.cn 

 

 

About the program 

The UNU-DTSD Program is a unique program that builds on an intensive collaboration between UNU-MACAU (Macau), UNU-MERIT (Maastricht, The Netherlands) and UNU-EHS (Bonn, Germany). The program is designed for scholars currently enrolled in higher education institutions or in early career research positions.  

Inspired by the global digital and green transition, the program cultivates our participants’ strategic vision and leadership potential, to develop their research skills and knowledge to utilize digital technology to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program represents a truly multidisciplinary perspective– building on the Digitalisation and AI expertise of UNU-MACAU, the Public Policy, Innovation and Development focus of UNU-MERIT and the Sustainability knowledge of UNU-EHS. The combination of the three perspectives, brought to the participants via professors and researchers from all three UNU institutions during their visit of to the three universities in three countries, provides direct interaction and experience within the United Nations University. 

Our participants will receive support on professional career development, expand global competencies, and prepare for working within international organizations. In addition the programme includes several visits to UN and EU institutions, and a number of (optional) social events that allow the cohort of participants to network and engage outside of class.  

 

Learning objectives 

 

At the end of the programme, participants: 

• Know the structure of the UN and its entitites 
• Understand how Digitalisation and AI change societies 
• Understand the basics of AI and are able to use it 
• Have the ability to link the concept of Public Policy to Digitalisation and
• Sustainability to achieve development 
• Experience working in a team and co-create solutions for global pressing issues, 
• Complete a group work with the guidance of the UNU researchers and experts, and present that to the cohort and experts. 

  

Admission requirements 

The programme is open enrollment. The participant profile includes  a global audience of students, with an interest in international topics related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Students should be interested in research, or further study or work in international organizations. While we prefer students with a master’s degree and PhD students, we also welcome undergraduate students with good understanding of research will be welcomed.  

• Specific interest in Digitalisation, Sustainability and Public Policy is beneficial.  
• In order to be eligible for admission applicants have to submit:  
• the completed enrolment application form. (ADD LINK HERE)  
• a copy of a valid passport or ID-card 
• a CV 
• a passport picture 
• proof of enrollment at or proof of having obtained a degree a University of Applied Sciences / Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Scientific  
• proof of meeting language requirement (minimum level equivalent to a 6.5 IELTS score) 

 

The application deadline is 1 November. Upon confirmation of eligibility, participants are provided an eligibility letter, with request to pay the tuition fee.