CIFAL Global Network

Advancing Sustainable Development and Empowering Communities with CIFAL Banjul 🌍✨

Established in 2023, the International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders in The Gambia (CIFAL Banjul), hosted by the University of The Gambia (UTG), serves as a dynamic platform for learning, collaboration, and leadership development across the African region. Through capacity-building initiatives and knowledge exchange, CIFAL Banjul is strengthening decision-making processes and empowering leaders committed to advancing sustainable development.

🌟 Driving Change Through Knowledge and Collaboration:

At CIFAL Banjul, meaningful dialogue inspires action, innovation, and long-term impact. Through engaging discussions and collaborative learning, participants explore some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s future while developing the leadership and strategic skills needed to drive sustainable transformation.

Key focus areas include:

🌱 Circular Economy and Waste Management
🌍 Environment and Climate Change Financing for Africa
🤝 Challenges and Opportunities of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
📊 Public Health and Data Management
⚖️ Gender Mainstreaming and Inclusive Development
🚀 Youth Empowerment and Leadership for Sustainable Futures
🎯 Advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals at the Local Level
✨ Building Resilient and Inclusive Futures

Aligned with the mission of UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network, CIFAL Banjul continues to equip communities, institutions, and emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to address today’s complex development challenges. Through its work, CIFAL Banjul empowers changemakers to drive sustainable solutions and contribute to building a greener, more inclusive, and resilient Africa for present and future generations.

🌏 CIFAL Shanghai: Fostering China-Australia Cross-Cultural Leadership! ✨

The Ma & Morley Programme Shanghai Workshop has concluded with resounding success at the historic Changning Campus of East China University of Political Science and Law (ECUPL)! This high-level workshop united educators, young trailblazers, and volunteers from both nations to champion the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and cultivate next-generation leadership.

🌟 Bridging Dialogue and Cultural Exchange:

The event opened with inspiring welcome addresses from senior leadership, including Mr. Luo Peixin (Vice President of ECUPL), Mr. Wu Yugang (Executive Director of CIFAL Shanghai), Dr. Alek Voninski (Pro Vice-Chancellor Global of the University of Newcastle), and Ms. Maryanne Pidcock (Scholarship Program Coordinator). The leaders celebrated the CIFAL Global Network’s vital role in internationalising education and sustainable development. The opening culminated in a historic signing ceremony, sealing a new chapter of deep academic and youth collaboration between China and Australia.

📸 Storytelling for Social Impact:

The heart of the workshop focused on turning sustainable development into creative action. Following a masterclass by Ms. Gu Yang on China’s remarkable progress toward the 2030 Agenda, acclaimed visual storyteller Mr. Conor Ashleigh led an immersive photography and skills session. Drawing together 27 Ma & Morley scholars alongside student volunteers from ECUPL, NYU Shanghai, and North America International School, participants took to the field to capture authentic narratives of global citizenship. The workshop wrapped up with a dynamic "Best Photo Presentation & Critique," a vibrant talent show, and a certificate presentation celebrating these rising leaders.
At UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network, we are dedicated to empowering our centers as crucial bridges for international youth exchange. By equipping scholars across diverse fields, from environmental science to law, with the tools for cross-cultural diplomacy, we are ensuring that tomorrow's leaders are ready to build a more collaborative and sustainable world! 🤝✨🎨

🏙️ CIFAL Global Network: Shaping Safe, Resilient, and Inclusive Cities at WUF13! ✨

Fresh from the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, UNITAR and its CIFAL Global Network successfully convened the Urban Capacity Lab! In direct alignment with the WUF13 theme, Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities, this high-level session brought together municipal officials, urban practitioners, academic partners, and CIFAL directors from around the world to tackle a pressing truth: achieving adequate housing and resilient cities requires far more than physical infrastructure, it demands skilled local leadership and innovative governance.

🌟 Localizing Global Agendas on the Frontlines:

The session opened with strategic framing from H.E. Ambassador Luis Gallegos, who placed inclusion at the core of the urban century, advocating for the structural rights of persons with disabilities and ageing populations in the New Urban Agenda.
The CIFAL CapaCity Action segment, moderated by Dr. Ebru Canan-Sokullu, drew on frontline brilliance across the global network:

- CIFAL Saudi Arabia (Dr. Aiman Albarakati) on bridging the urban implementation gap.
- Bahçeşehir University (Dr. Maan Chibli) on inclusive urban financing architectures.
- CIFAL Istanbul (Dr. Yasemin Ülker) on capacity development as a catalyst for resilient supply chains.
- CIFAL Durban (Dr. Mpilo Ngubane) on strengthening local government from within.
- CIFAL Malaga (Ms. Deborah Salafranca) on balancing urban planning with regenerative tourism.

🚀 Co-Designing the Future of Urban Governance:

Moving from discussion to dynamic action, the session transformed into an interactive Urban Capacity Lab co-led by Dr. Canan-Sokullu and Ms. Ülker. Participants joined specialized stations to co-create practical toolkits, prototype action plans, and tackle priority gaps across housing and inclusion. Contributing directly to the Baku Call to Action and the UN Secretary-General’s mid-term review of the New Urban Agenda, this landmark event underscores our unwavering commitment to advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships). Together, we are ensuring that the world's cities are built and led by changemakers equipped to deliver on the promise of a sustainable future! 🌎✨🤝

🌏 For a decade, CIFAL Philippines and the University of the Philippines have championed learning, collaboration, and innovation in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals at the local level, from migration and gender equality to water governance, digital governance, youth engagement, and inclusive business.

Join us for Conversations for Global Goals, a special webinar series featuring experts and practitioners who will share insights and perspectives on today’s most pressing development challenges and opportunities.
Stay tuned for the opening of registration for each webinar. Looking forward to seeing you there! ✨

🌏 CIFAL Newcastle: Empowering Future Changemakers at the United Nations in Bangkok! ✨

CIFAL Newcastle is thrilled to spotlight the 14th University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS), taking place at the historic United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, from 4–7 August 2026! Backed by key UN agencies, this prestigious, globally recognized event brings together the world's most promising student leaders for a transformative week of growth, diplomacy, and global action.

🌟 Turning Empathy into Impactful Action:

The USLS is far more than a summit; it is an immersive incubator designed to give youth the ultimate toolkit for social change. Participants will have the unparalleled opportunity to collaborate directly with global experts, build hands-on skills through intensive workshops, and get a firsthand look at how the UN operates. By connecting with international leaders and peers from diverse backgrounds, students will gain the confidence and strategic vision needed to spearhead sustainable development initiatives back in their own communities.

In complete alignment with UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network, global targets are achieved when we empower youth with a shared vision for a better world. By bridging the gap between passionate students and the international decision-making ecosystem, we are ensuring that the energy, innovation, and voices of the next generation remain at the absolute forefront of the 2030 Agenda. Let's build a more sustainable, equitable, and collaborative future together! 🌎✨🤝

Registrations are Open Now!
🗓️ Deadline: 10 June 2026
🔗 More Info & Applications: humanitarianaffairs.org/USLS

SESIMUN 2026: Preparing Tomorrow's Global Leaders with CIFAL Curitiba!✨

At SESIMUN 2026, students go far beyond the traditional classroom. Stepping into the shoes of diplomats and national delegates, they will debate the complexities of modern geopolitics and develop crucial, future-ready skills that will shape the world of tomorrow.

🌟 Transforming Education into Leadership:

This high-level simulation, inspired by the United Nations, is a dynamic platform where argumentation, leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork come to life. Connecting academic knowledge with global vision, participants will be challenged to propose innovative solutions to pressing world issues across three impactful committees:

🤖 Protecting Workers in the Era of Automation and AI / Regulating Platform and Gig Economies Across National Borders (English)
☢️ The Disarmament of the Korean Peninsula and Contemporary Nuclear Fear (English)
🌱 The Geopolitics of Sustainability and the Role of Industry (Portuguese)

🚀 Building a Future of Cooperation and Impact:

In alignment with the mission of UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network, initiatives like SESIMUN are essential for bridging the gap between youth and the international decision-making ecosystem. By empowering students to navigate the intersection of industrial growth and sustainability, the next generation will have the tools and diplomatic vision to build a safer, fairer, and more resilient world! 🌎✨🤝

🗓️ Event Dates: 25 & 26 June 2026
🏢 Location: Campus da Indústria de Curitiba
📝 Registration Period: 18 May – 1 June 2026
📄 Position Paper Deadline: Until 15 June 2026

CIFAL Surrey: Unlocking Funding & Driving Sustainability for Businesses and Academia! 🌱

On 15 May 2026, CIFAL Surrey and Ms Maria Sega-Buhalis, a Research and Development Manager at the University of Surrey, led an insightful seminar on Horizon Europe! The session provided a vital update on open and upcoming funding calls, specifically targeting sustainability and cross-cutting green initiatives.

With more than 35% of the total Horizon Europe budget dedicated to climate action, this creates an incredible opportunity for Surrey academics and researchers to secure impactful external funding and expand collaboration with global and European partners.

🚀 Empowering SMEs through 'Quick Wins':

Looking to turn environmental responsibility into a competitive edge? Don't miss out on Module 2 of our Sustainable and Resilient SMEs programme, taking place this Friday, May 22nd. This specialized session is designed to help local businesses identify, action, and successfully communicate sustainability "quick wins."

ℹ️ More Info: lnkd.in/eejHh54z
🎟️ Book Your Place: lnkd.in/euxJYE8D

At UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network, we believe that global goals are achieved through local economic resilience. Let’s work together to build a greener, thriving, and more sustainable Surrey! 🤝✨

Building a Foundation for Safer Communities: An Introduction to Mine Action and EOD

CIFAL York, ADERSIM, SubSphere Corporation, and AvioTrax are pleased to announce Session 4 of our ongoing series on “Mine Action: Innovation, Sustainability, and Global Partnerships.” As we continue to explore the complexities of humanitarian demining, this session returns to the fundamental principles and essential practices that define the field.

Join us as we welcome Dr. Robert Keeley, a distinguished expert representing the Institute of Explosive Engineers and the International Association of Bomb Technicians & Investigators (IABTI). Dr. Keeley will provide a comprehensive overview of Mine Action and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), sharing insights from his extensive experience in the sector.

Session Details:

🗨️ Topic: An Introduction to Mine Action and EOD
🎤 Speaker: Dr. Robert Keeley - Institute of Explosives Engineers and International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators

🗓️ Date: May 21, 2026
🕒 Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET
💻 Location: Online via Zoom
🔗More Info: https://lnkd.in/gP-CcQV6
🔗Register: https://lnkd.in/g7Q973m6

Whether you are a student, a researcher, or a professional in disaster management and international development, this session offers a vital look at the foundational work necessary to clear the path for recovery and peace.

🌍 CIFAL Honolulu: Inspiring the Next Generation of Climate Guardians! 🏝️✨

Thrilled to see CIFAL Honolulu engaging with bright young minds at Maryknoll School during the Youth for the Climate Sustainability Fair! This vibrant event served as a powerful platform to introduce students to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sparking meaningful conversations about our collective responsibility to protect our planet and its future.

🌟 From Classroom Learning to Climate Action:

By bringing the SDGs directly to the students, the interactive sessions focused on the urgency of climate resilience and the vital role that youth play as catalysts for sustainable change. Witnessing the passion and innovative ideas of these students reinforces our belief that the next generation is actively building it through advocacy, education, and community leadership.

🌊 From Hawaii to the World

At UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network, we believe that real impact starts at the grassroots level. Our mission is to equip these rising leaders with the strategic insights needed to navigate environmental challenges.

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the CIFAL Global Network are convening the Urban Capacity Lab — Advancing City Action Through Capacity Development, a WUF Academy session at the WUF13 Azerbaijan in Baku.

The session features opening remarks by Mr Alex Mejia (UNITAR) and a keynote by H.E. Luis Gallegos, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ecuador, on inclusive cities, with frontline insights from CIFAL Istanbul, Durban, and Dakar.

📅 19 May 2026, 09:30–11:30 a.m. (AZT)
📍 Baku Convention Centre, Baku, Azerbaijan
🌐 Hybrid event

📣 CIFAL Istanbul: The Global Youth Summit for Sustainability Lands in Türkiye!

For the first time ever, the Global Youth Summit for Sustainability (GYSS) is making its historic debut in Istanbul! Originally organized annually in Geneva by the Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP), this prestigious summit is being brought to the Bosphorus through a powerful partnership between CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR, and Bahçeşehir Üniversitesi. From 21–24 May, Istanbul will transform into the global heart of youth-led climate and social action.

🌟 Inspiring the Leaders of Tomorrow:

This summit is more than a conference; it is a high-level platform for peace, cooperation, and sustainable innovation. Bringing together speakers from diverse disciplines, experts from various United Nations agencies, and passionate young change-makers from across the globe, the event aims to elevate youth voices directly onto the global agenda. Through interactive panels and inspiring dialogues, participants will explore how to turn social impact ideas into reality, fostering a new generation of leaders ready to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.

Driving the 2030 Agenda through Youth Leadership. 🤝

UNITAR and the CIFAL Global Network remain deeply committed to positioning CIFAL Istanbul as a central bridge between the youth and the United Nations ecosystem. Together, we are transforming Istanbul into a vibrant stage for diplomatic dialogue, ensuring that the bold solutions and voices of the next generation are integrated into the global strategies that will define our shared world! 🌎✨

❗️Limited capacity - to reserve your spot:
🔗 https://www.ycdp.ch/gyss/