U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership 2026
Hosted by McMaster University | 13–17 July 2026
About the programme
The U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership, hosted by McMaster University, invites postgraduate students from diverse academic disciplines to an enriching experience focused on sustainability, leadership, and global impact.
Building on existing programmes and modules delivered at U21 institutions, the U21 School for Sustainable Policy Leadership aims to provide postgraduate students from U21 member institutions with the skills and experience to develop and implement impactful sustainability policies, equipping them with critical skills in policy analysis, development, and implementation.
Participants will gain hands-on experience and practical insights into global sustainability challenges and solutions through keynote lectures, workshops, field visits, case study analysis and project collaboration. The programme aims to cultivate a network of future leaders committed to driving sustainable development and policy innovation.
Key Details
- Dates: 13–17 July 2026
- Location: McMaster University, Canada
- Cost: Programme costs will be covered by U21 and McMaster University, participants must be able to cover their own travel, accommodation and subsistence costs (a small number of bursaries are available – see below)
- Participants: Each U21 member institution can nominate two students to attend. It is anticipated up to 60 students will participate in the programme
About McMaster University
Located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, McMaster University is a research-intensive university ranked among the best in the world with a bold ambition to advance human and societal health and well-being. Among Canada’s top universities for student services, their research excellence is matched by a long history of teaching innovations and commitment to preparing students for an increasingly complex future.
McMaster University invented problem-based learning, the McMaster method, which continues to transform education globally. They are also the birthplace of evidence-based medicine, a revolution in care that is one of the most important medical advances of our time. Their nuclear research produces isotopes to treat cancer and brings the promise of cleaner energy for all. Students and faculty join McMaster to build on their global leadership in research which deeply impacts people, communities and the planet.
Programme Highlights
- InInteractive sessions with leading sustainability academics from across the U21 network.
- Participants will explore McMaster’s sustainability initiatives through guided tours and field visits, including:
- Green buildings, energy systems, and the campus nuclear reactor for insights into low-carbon energy.
- The carbon sink forest and new campus greenhouse to examine carbon sequestration and biodiversity research.
- A visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens to engage with ecological stewardship and land-based learning.
- The program will emphasize real-world impact through a case study on McMaster’s Net Zero Carbon Roadmap, connecting global sustainability concepts to local institutional action.
- Participants can earn the Youth Can Sustain (YCS) Certificate, delivered in partnership with SDSN Canada and the University of Calgary.
- Collaborate with and build a network of global peers.
Programme Overview
An overview of this year’s programme can be found here for information.
Please note, the detailed programme is currently being finalised and will be shared with nominated students ahead of the programme start date.
In partnership with SDSN Canada, McMaster is offering U21 participants the option to complete an additional certificate alongside the programme. Participants will be offered the opportunity to complete a modified, no-cost pathway to earn the Youth Can Sustain Certificate, signed by Dr. Jeffrey Sachs. To participate, students must complete one online course and two pre-recorded workshops before the in-person program begins on July 13.
Anticipated Outcomes
- Analyze and develop sustainability policies using real-world case studies.
- Demonstrate an enhanced understanding of global sustainability challenges, particularly those aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Exhibit strengthened leadership and communication skills, especially in collaborative and cross-disciplinary contexts.
- Develop sustainable approaches tailored to field of study or professional context.
- Learn from the global experiences of their peers, fostering intercultural awareness and shared innovation.
- Gain foundational knowledge of Indigenous perspectives through training with the McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI).
Participant Assessment
- Continuous assessment through attendance/participation, teamwork, and final project quality/presentation.
- Certificates of completion awarded to participants.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree and currently be enrolled in any postgraduate programme at a U21 member institution.
- Students from all disciplines are encouraged to apply.
- The programme will be delivered in English. Recommended English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Travel, Accommodation, Subsistence & Visas
Travel:
There are several options for travel from Toronto Pearson Airport to McMaster University including:
| Travel Option | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bus (Flixbus) | Direct service to Hamilton, 55 – 58 minutes |
| Bus (Go Transit) | Route 40: From Terminal 1 to Main St. W. @ Paisley Ave. S., 1h 10m |
| Train | UP Express to Union Station → GO Train to Aldershot → Bus or taxi to McMaster. Total time: 2h 20m |
| Taxi | Direct from Pearson to McMaster: 46 minutes |
Accommodation:
McMaster University has reserved on-campus accommodations from 12-18 July – any other days of accommodation would need be sourced separately by participants.
Accommodation Details
Location: Les Prince Hall, McMaster University Campus
- Check-in: Sunday, July 12, 2026
- Check-out: Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Duration: 6 Nights
- Room Type: Single Student Residence (1 Twin Bed), Private Ensuite Washroom
Pricing
- Nightly Rate: $105.09 CAD (Tax included) (approximately $75 USD)
- Total Stay: $630.54 (Tax included) (approximately $450 USD).
Once students have accepted their place on the programme a link to book the accommodation will be sent by email.
Subsistence:
Please note that participants will be responsible for covering their own subsistence costs throughout the trip, including meals and drinks.
Visas:
It is the attendee’s responsibility to confirm visa requirements for Canada and apply if necessary. Requirements depend on nationality. For reference, here are some helpful links:
Do I need a visa to travel to Canada
If you have any queries or need further support for a visa application, please email [email protected]
Inclusive Global Engagement Bursaries
To support equity and access, 4 bursaries of US$500 each will be awarded. These grants aim to encourage participation from:
- students underrepresented in higher education in their country
- students who have not previously experience international education
- students who face barriers to meeting the costs of travelling internationally
have not previously experienced international education. During the nomination process, U21 nominators should indicate which students should be considered for an Inclusive Global Engagement Bursary on the form.
Some U21 member universities may provide funding for participation in this programme. Please contact the relevant U21 Global Learning and Mobility Contact or U21 Officer for more information. .
Nomination Process
Each university may nominate 2 students. Nomination may only be submitted by a U21 Senior Leader, U21 Officer or Global Learning and Mobility Group member. These groups will be sent the nomination form link via email.
The deadline for nominations is 26 February.
Participants will then be contacted by U21 confirming their place and/or travel grant and invited to complete a registration form.
Participants must accept their place by registering to attend the school by 29 March 2026.