Geneva, Switzerland - The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the CIFAL Global Network successfully concluded the Science, Technology, and Sustainable Development Training Programme for Senior Officials, co-developed by UNITAR and CIFAL Shanghai . The programme took place from 13 to 30 October 2025 at UNITAR Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
This high-level capacity-building initiative focused on innovation and sustainable development, aiming to strengthen participants' expertise in advancing the integration of science, technology, and policy to support inclusive and innovation-driven growth. It gathered senior government officials from the Municipality of Shanghai and related institutions to exchange best practices and enhance their understanding of global trends in innovation, sustainable growth, and multilateral cooperation.
The sessions were led by experts, including Mr Alex Mejia, Director of the Division for People and Social Development at UNITAR and Head of the CIFAL Global Network, who delivered the opening remarks and reflected on the development journey of CIFAL Shanghai, highlighting the close cooperation between UNITAR and China and extending a warm welcome to the Shanghai delegation. Ms Ebru Canan-Sokullu, Associate Director of the CIFAL Global Network, discussed the role of the digital economy, innovation, and sustainable development in driving inclusive and resilient growth, tracing the evolution of global economic progress from the Agricultural Revolution to the Digital Era.
Mr Luca Dell'Oro from the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) delivered a session on the use of satellite imagery and geospatial technologies to enhance climate and disaster resilience, while Mr Guoyong Liang from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) presented insights on global economic trends and the emerging process of deglobalization, engaging participants in a discussion on Shanghai's future development in the context of global economic transformation.
