This summer, Lund University proudly hosted the first U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership, bringing together 45 postgraduate students from 17 universities across the Universitas 21 (U21) network. The programme was designed to equip future leaders with the tools, perspectives, and networks needed to address some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
The week-long event combined academic insight with real-world application. Students took part in workshops, keynotes, and interactive sessions led by Lund University faculty and external experts. They worked in diverse, international teams on a group challenge to design sustainable initiatives that could be implemented by universities or contribute to broader academic communities. A standout moment was the visit to UN City in Copenhagen, where participants engaged with representatives from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
The U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership is more than an academic initiative—it’s a reflection of Lund University’s commitment to responsible global engagement and inclusive education. By creating space for students to collaborate across cultures and disciplines, we aim to foster leadership that is both informed and impactful.
Our participation in international networks such as U21 is key to this work. These platforms allow us to co-create meaningful opportunities, share expertise, and contribute to a global community of practice that drives innovation in higher education. As active members of U21’s sustainability and equity initiatives—including as signatories of CANIE (Climate Action Network for International Educators)—we are committed to making our international engagement both representative and future-focused.
