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 students currently enrolled in higher education institutions. 

 

Time: 18-22 January 2027 

 

Event Contact: cdo@merit.unu.edu 

 

About the program 

The United Nations University Program on Digital Technology and Sustainable Development (DTSD) program is a unique 1-week intensive training that builds on a collaboration between UNU-MACAU (Macau), UNU-MERIT (Maastricht, The Netherlands) and UNU-EHS (Bonn, Germany). The program is designed for students currently enrolled in their bachelor's or master's programmes in higher education institutions.

Inspired by the global digital and green transition, the DTSD program introduces the use of AI for public policy with 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 knowledge on AI and climate change of UNU-EHS. The three perspectives, brought to the participants via the classes from professors and researchers from all three UNU institutions, are provided to the participants through a series of lectures and practical exercises. The visits to UNU-MERIT in the Netherlands and UNU-EHS in Germany offer participants a firsthand experience of the United Nations University in action.

The programme will help participants with their professional career development and will prepare them for working within international organizations. In addition, the visits to campuses, and a number of (optional) social events will allow the cohort of participants to network and engage outside of class.

 

Programme description and Learning objectives 

The programme starts on Monday 18 January 2027 at UNU-MERIT (Maastricht, the Netherlands), with sessions focusing on the foundations of public policy and AI. The next two days zoom in on the use of AI for Public Policy – e.g labour market policy and the use of monitoring and evaluation to understand best practices and learn from implemented policies. Introductory knowledge is shared through lectures, and the interactive sessions build skills of cooperation, communication, software use, data use and presentation.

On Wednesday 20 January in the evening, participants travel by bus (included in the tuition fee) to Bonn, Germany. There, the sessions at UNU-EHS will focus on the use of AI to study climate change, including elements such as climate adaptation and disaster risk management.

The programme concludes on Friday 22 January with a group activity that encompasses all learnings that were gained during the week. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate validated by the three UNU institutes. 

At the end of the programme, participants will:

• Know the structure of the UN and its entities
• Understand how Digitalisation and AI change societies
• Understand the basics of AI and are able to use it
• Have the ability to link the concepts of AI and Digitalisation to Public Policy and Development
• Understand the relationship between AI and Climate Change
• 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 program is open for enrolment. We welcome bachelor or master students and recent graduates from around the globe. 

Specific interest in AI, Digitalisation, Sustainability, Research and Public Policy is beneficial.

In order to be eligible for admission, after completing this application form, applicants have to submit to complete their registration the following information:

• a completed enrolment application form (which will be sent to you by email to the account you register here).
• a copy of a valid passport or ID-card
• a CV
• a passport picture
• proof of enrolment at or proof of having obtained a master's or bachelor's degree
• proof of meeting the English language requirement (minimum level equivalent to a 6.5 IELTS score)

 

The application deadline is 1 October 2026. Upon confirmation of eligibility, participants are provided an invitation letter, that can be used to request the visa. 

Please note that the joint UNU institutions are unfortunately not able to provide scholarships for this programme.

In case you question your eligibility, check by sending an email to cdo@merit.unu.edu