The Future Leaders in the World of Work – South-South University 2026 is now accepting applications from ambitious university students, aspiring researchers, innovators, youth representatives, and early-career professionals who want to build careers in international development, multilateral diplomacy, sustainable development, and South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC).

Organized by the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ITCILO) in cooperation with its knowledge partners and delivered within the framework of the Turin School of Development, this flagship programme equips participants with the knowledge, skills, networks, and career guidance needed to become future leaders supporting human-centred development across the Global South.

Taking place from 27 July to 7 August 2026, the programme combines face-to-face learning in Turin, Italy, a study visit to Geneva, Switzerland, practical workshops, career coaching, exposure to United Nations agencies, and opportunities to develop actionable proposals addressing the future of work.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the programme, including its objectives, benefits, eligibility requirements, learning structure, application process, costs, important dates, and why it represents a valuable opportunity for future global leaders.

What Is the Future Leaders in the World of Work Programme?

Future Leaders in the World of Work is a flagship international training programme under the South-South University, designed to prepare the next generation of professionals who are committed to advancing sustainable development through South-South and Triangular Cooperation.

The programme recognizes that the future of employment, international cooperation, and sustainable development is being reshaped by major global transformations, including:

• Emerging technologies
• Climate change
• Demographic transitions
• Trade and investment shifts
• Digital transformation
• Changing labour markets
• New forms of multilateral cooperation

Participants explore how these global trends influence employment, development policy, and international cooperation while designing innovative responses that promote decent work and sustainable development.

The programme also supports young professionals interested in careers with:

• United Nations agencies
• International organizations
• Development institutions
• Government ministries
• International NGOs
• Multilateral development organizations
• Global policy institutions

About the South-South University

The South-South University is implemented through collaboration between ITCILO and its knowledge partners within the Turin School of Development.

Its primary mission is to support ambitious young leaders who wish to contribute to:

• Human-centred development
• South-South Cooperation
• Triangular Cooperation
• International development
• Social justice
• Decent work
• Sustainable economic transformation

Rather than offering only classroom-based instruction, the programme emphasizes practical engagement, collaboration, and policy-oriented problem solving.

Why This Programme Matters

The world of work is evolving rapidly.

Artificial intelligence, automation, environmental challenges, digital transformation, and shifting geopolitical dynamics are changing how societies develop and how labour markets function.

Countries in the Global South increasingly rely on South-South and Triangular Cooperation to:

• Share successful development models
• Exchange technical expertise
• Promote sustainable economic growth
• Build resilience
• Strengthen social inclusion

The Future Leaders in the World of Work programme prepares participants to contribute meaningfully to these efforts while positioning themselves for future leadership roles in international organizations.

Programme Dates

The 2026 edition will take place from:

27 July – 7 August 2026

The programme consists of activities in both Italy and Switzerland.

Italy

• Turin
• 27–29 July 2026
• 1–7 August 2026

Switzerland

• Geneva
• 30–31 July 2026

The programme is delivered entirely in English.

Programme Structure

The programme combines several complementary learning experiences.

1. Study Visit to Geneva

Participants travel to Geneva to gain first-hand exposure to international organizations.

Highlights include:

• Guest lectures at ILO Headquarters
• Learning about multilateral diplomacy
• Understanding UN operations
• Exploring international careers
• Visiting selected Geneva-based organizations

Participants also meet representatives from Human Resources departments who explain career pathways within the United Nations system.

2. Thematic Workshops

Interactive workshops focus on:

• Human-centred development
• South-South Cooperation
• Sustainable development
• Future of work
• Global labour challenges

Participants work collaboratively to develop action-oriented proposals addressing global development priorities.

3. Personalized Career Coaching

One of the programme’s distinguishing features is individualized coaching.

Participants receive support from international career coaches who help them:

• Clarify career goals
• Develop long-term career plans
• Build international career strategies
• Prepare for careers within the UN system
• Identify opportunities in multilateral organizations

Each participant develops a realistic three-to-five-year professional roadmap.

What Participants Will Learn

Throughout the programme, participants examine major issues influencing international development.

Topics include:

• Future of work
• Sustainable development
• Human-centred technology
• Climate change
• Trade and investment
• Demographic transitions
• International development
• Multilateral diplomacy
• South-South Cooperation
• Triangular Cooperation
• Social justice
• Decent work
• Sustainable labour markets

The curriculum encourages participants to formulate innovative solutions capable of supporting equitable and sustainable development.

Career Development Opportunities

A major strength of the programme is its emphasis on career preparation.

Participants receive guidance that includes:

• UN career pathways
• Career planning
• Professional coaching
• Networking strategies
• Leadership development
• International career preparation

According to ITCILO, participants benefit from career coaching typically reserved for UN fellows.

Who Can Apply?

The programme welcomes applicants from around the world who are passionate about international development and the future of work.

Eligible applicants include:

• Youth representatives
• University students
• Innovators
• Aspiring researchers
• Young professionals

Professionals should generally be within five years of graduation at the time of application.

Researchers should be enrolled in:

• Full-time taught degree programmes
• Full-time research degree programmes

Academic Backgrounds

Applicants may come from numerous disciplines relevant to the International Labour Organization, including:

• Law
• Economics
• Environmental Science
• Government
• Political Science
• International Relations
• Population Studies
• Public Policy
• Development Studies

Applicants from related disciplines are also encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Commitment to South-South and Triangular Cooperation
• Interest in sustainable development
• Passion for the future of work
• Strong motivation to support international development
• Interest in the work of the International Labour Organization
• Fluency in English

Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Motivation Interviews

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in motivation interviews.

During these interviews, candidates should explain:

• Their academic journey
• Professional experience
• Motivation for joining the programme
• Career aspirations
• How the programme aligns with their future goals

Applicants are encouraged to clearly connect their background with the objectives of the programme.

Open House Webinars

Prospective applicants can participate in Open House Webinars designed to help them prepare competitive applications.

Topics include:

• Application guidance
• Motivation interview preparation
• Understanding programme objectives
• Exploring South-South Cooperation
• Learning about future work trends

These webinars also provide opportunities to interact directly with programme coordinators.

Campus Experience

Participants study at the ITCILO Campus located along the banks of the Po River in Turin.

The campus offers:

• Safe learning environment
• International atmosphere
• Modern facilities
• Opportunities for networking
• Access to the United Nations Campus

Turin has hosted the United Nations Campus since 1964 and is home to:

• International Training Centre of the ILO
• United Nations System Staff College
• UN Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute

Study Visit to Geneva

Participants spend two days in Geneva exploring:

• International Labour Organization
• Other UN agencies
• International organizations
• NGOs

Activities include:

• Expert lectures
• Institutional visits
• Career sessions
• Human Resources discussions
• Multilateral diplomacy exposure

Optional Cultural Excursions

Participants may also register for optional day trips to:

• Venice
• Nice
• Monaco

These cultural activities complement the learning experience while allowing participants to explore Europe.

Certificate

Participants who successfully complete all programme requirements receive an official ITCILO Certificate of Participation.

The certificate is issued in Digital Credentials Format, allowing recipients to:

• Share on LinkedIn
• Include on CVs
• Showcase professional development
• Demonstrate international learning experience

Programme Costs

Programme fees are:

• Tuition: €2,345
• Subsistence: €2,005

Total Cost: €4,350

Applicants should review programme details for payment arrangements and additional travel considerations.

Important Dates

Applicants should carefully note the following timeline:

• Programme Dates: 27 July–7 August 2026
• Application Deadline: 5 July 2026
• Language: English
• Delivery Mode: Face-to-face

The application deadline has been extended to 5 July 2026 for participants who already possess, or do not require, an entry visa for Italy.

Why You Should Apply

This programme offers much more than classroom learning.

Participants benefit from:

• International networking
• Exposure to the United Nations system
• Professional coaching
• Leadership development
• Practical workshops
• Career guidance
• Policy engagement
• Cross-cultural collaboration
• International experience
• Official ITCILO certification

It is particularly valuable for young professionals seeking careers in:

• International organizations
• Sustainable development
• Public policy
• Labour and employment
• Global governance
• International cooperation
• Diplomacy

Click HERE to learn more about the Future Leaders in the World of Work 2026.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their application through the Official ITCILO Application Portal before the application deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to:

1. Review all eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare a strong application.
3. Demonstrate motivation for international development.
4. Highlight academic and professional achievements.
5. Show commitment to South-South and Triangular Cooperation.
6. Prepare for the motivation interview if shortlisted.

Download the Brochure HERE

Conclusion

The Future Leaders in the World of Work – South-South University 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for ambitious students, researchers, innovators, and young professionals seeking to build careers in international development, sustainable development, and multilateral cooperation.

Through an immersive learning experience spanning Turin and Geneva, participants gain direct exposure to the work of the International Labour Organization, United Nations agencies, and leading experts working on the future of work. The combination of practical workshops, policy discussions, personalized career coaching, networking opportunities, and international study visits equips participants with the knowledge, confidence, and global perspective needed to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and South-South Cooperation initiatives.

With an application deadline of 5 July 2026, interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible, prepare thoroughly for the motivation interview, and take advantage of this unique opportunity to become part of a global community of future leaders committed to advancing decent work, social justice, and human-centred development.

Discover more global Fellowship and Leadership Development opportunities on OFY.