8 July 2025, Geneva, Switzerland - The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in collaboration with the International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders in Shanghai (CIFAL Shanghai), successfully held another edition of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Youth Empowerment Seminar for Change-makers on 2–3 July 2025 at UNITAR Headquarters in Geneva.
This two-day seminar welcomed a delegation of students from Shanghai, offering them a unique opportunity to engage with the global agenda for sustainable development and to gain first-hand exposure to the work of international organizations based in Geneva.
The primary aim of the seminar was to educate young participants about the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 SDGs while highlighting the critical role of youth in global efforts to create a sustainable, inclusive future. Aligned with the United Nations’ “Youth 2030” initiative, the programme emphasized actions and strategies for youth engagement.
Immersive Two-Day Programme
The seminar opened with study visits to key international organizations in Geneva. On 2 July, participants toured the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the World Trade Organization. These visits offered insights into how these institutions contribute to global cooperation.
On 3 July, the seminar was held at the Palais des Nations, where participants received lectures from UNITAR officials. The day began with opening remarks from Dr. Ebru Canan-Sokullu, Associate Director of the CIFAL Global Network, and Ms. Ding Tianyue, Assistant to the Director of CIFAL Shanghai, who stressed the importance that youth play in the advancement and accomplishment of the SDGs. Mr. Stephen Joyce, Programme Coordinator at UNITAR, then delivered a lecture on the mission of the United Nations and UNITAR’s role in advancing sustainable development and capacity building.
The next sessions explored the SDGs in depth, with a particular focus on the Youth 2030 programme. The participants engaged in discussions about the current global challenges and how young people worldwide are mobilizing to support the SDGs. A highlight of the seminar was the thematic lecture on “Youth Leadership in Times of Global Challenges.” This session introduced participants to different styles of leadership, showcased inspiring youth-led initiatives, and encouraged critical thinking about the leadership roles young people can assume in today’s interconnected world. The programme concluded with group presentations in which students proposed innovative ways for youth to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. At the closing ceremony, participants received certificates of participation.