UN@80 & UNU@50: “AI for Humanity” Youth Summit — Crossroad of AI and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Macau, China — October 23–26, 2025 — The Global Youth Development Alliance (GYDA), in partnership with the United Nations University Institute in Macau, launches the dedicated Youth Track of the “AI for Humanity” Summit, spotlighting the theme: “Artificial Intelligence and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

This programme provides international high school and university students with a unique platform for immersive participation in UN-level dialogue, hands-on project practice, and cultural exchange. Through competitions, training workshops, and youth–expert dialogues, participants will:

• Gain a deep understanding of AI ethics and global governance frameworks.
• Engage directly with UN officials, industry leaders, and global youth innovators.
• Receive a UNU-recognized practice certificate and access to project incubation opportunities.

Key Benefits

The Youth Track emphasizes applied research, digital innovation, and sustainable development. By the conclusion of the programme, participants will achieve:

• Academic Outcomes — Submission of three UN-style materials, including the AI & SDGs Practice Report and Model UN Negotiation Record. Outstanding projects will be included in the UNU Youth Innovation Case Library.
• Certification & Skills — Official Practice Certificate from UNU Macau and GYDA, plus five skill badges (AI Tools, Intercultural Collaboration, etc.).
• Global Resources — Priority access to the 2026 Global Youth AI Innovation Competition and fast-track application for Macau university summer research programmes.

Target Participants

• Open exclusively to international high school and university students.
• Fluent English speaking and listening required.
• Applicants must submit a 500-word motivation letter on their understanding of the SDGs.

Programme Agenda

October 23 — Innovation Competition & Youth Dialogue

• Registration & Welcome Pack (SDGs handbook, AI toolkit).
• Observation of the Global Youth AI Innovation Finals (12 teams, focus on green transition).
• AI for Good Workshop with Microsoft experts.
• Dialogue with UNITAR Youth Advisors and Macau University professors.
• Cross-cultural team “Macau Community SDGs Challenge.”

October 24 — International Conference Day

• Summit Opening Ceremony: Address by UN Secretary-General António Guterres (video), keynote by UNU Rector Tshilidzi Marwala.
• Parallel Forums: AI & Education Equity; Youth Tech Solutions for Climate Action; Digital Divide & Global South Cooperation.
• Model UN AI Policy Negotiation on Global AI Ethics Framework.
• Youth Project Pitch Preparation.

October 25 — Education & Innovation Showcase

• High-level AI & Education Forum with global leaders.
• Youth Project Showcase: judged for Best Innovation and Most Feasible Award (with incubation support).
• Study visits to AI labs and sustainability centres in Macau.
• Closing Ceremony & Certificate Awarding.

October 26 — Cultural Immersion & Reflection

• Field research in Macau’s Historic Centre on “Cultural Heritage and Tourism Balance.”
• Completion of Urban Sustainability Observation Report.
• Closing reflections and departure.

Application & Fees

• Application Deadline: October 10, 2025 (limited to 20 participants).
• Programme Fee: RMB ¥16,800 per person (includes 3-night accommodation, meals, summit access, in-city transport, and learning materials. Excludes airfare and personal expenses).