The UNESCO Chair on Science, Technology and Innovation (ST&I) Policies for Sustainable Development in Latin America at UNU-MERIT invites Master's students from across Latin America to participate in a special session at the III LALICS Master's Academy, taking place in November 2026.
This year's theme, "Innovation, Development and Natural Resources in Latin America," focuses on one of the most important challenges facing the region today: how countries can harness their natural resources to support sustainable development while navigating the digital and green transitions.
Why this matters
Digitalisation and decarbonisation are transforming economies worldwide. From artificial intelligence and data centres to renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles, both transitions depend heavily on access to natural resources, energy, and critical minerals.
Latin America is uniquely positioned within this global transformation. The region possesses significant reserves of strategic resources that are increasingly essential for digital technologies and low-carbon development. However, natural resource abundance alone does not guarantee economic development. The challenge lies in strengthening innovation systems, building productive capabilities, and creating opportunities for local value addition and technological upgrading.
The Academy provides a space for young researchers to examine these questions and contribute to ongoing debates on innovation, development, sustainability, and structural transformation in Latin America.
About the UNESCO Chair Special Session
The UNESCO Chair special session will bring together Master's students, researchers, and experts working on issues related to:
- Science, technology and innovation policy
- Sustainable development
- Natural resource-based development
- Digital transformation
- Green transitions
- Industrial and innovation policy
- Structural change and productive development
- Inclusive and sustainable growth in Latin America
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with leading scholars and peers from across the region while presenting and discussing their research proposals.
Award for the Best Master's Proposal
As part of the special session, the UNESCO Chair will recognise the best Master's research proposals. The selected participants will receive support to attend the Academy, including transportation and accommodation costs.
Who Can Apply?
The call is open to Master's students currently enrolled in Latin American institutions whose research relates to innovation, development, sustainability, natural resources, or related fields.
Application
Applications can be submitted through the official form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc95v94FGysZ18F9U0oEWDBJQRlMP3EzVWxCBtj9-SHPAXPYQ/viewform
Key Dates
Application deadline: 12 June 2026
About the UNESCO Chair
The UNESCO Chair on ST&I Policies for Sustainable Development in Latin America, hosted by UNU-MERIT, promotes research, capacity development, and policy dialogue on the role of science, technology, and innovation in advancing inclusive and sustainable development across the region.
