The United Nations University (UNU) offers Future Leaders Bootcamps at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. These in-person workshops provide young scholars with a window into the United Nations system and build their capacity to collaboratively solve global challenges.
Through the workshops, students will:
- learn directly from United Nations professionals through first-hand insights and practical tips.
- gain core diplomatic skills in public speaking, leadership, and negotiation.
- explore the roles and impact of key agencies, including UNICEF, UNDP, UNIDO and others
- gain insights from academics and researchers from UNU’s partner universities in Tokyo.
- learn about UNU’s work in providing knowledge-based solutions to support the Sustainable Development Goals.
Created for students
The workshop is tailored for university and high school students who have an interest in the work of the United Nations and want to pursue a career in international organisations. We especially welcome participation and collaboration from youth and partners in the Global South.
Content and structure
The workshops cover the following key components and are typically held over a period of 1–3 days. The agenda and length of the programme can be tailored to the organization’s needs.
Introduction to the United Nations System and UNU’s work.
Presentations of UN agencies: Distinguished representatives from various agencies in Tokyo will share valuable insights into their work, highlighting the impact of their initiatives.
Thematic Workshops: Students will explore a range of global themes such as peace and security, education, gender equality, and transformative technologies through interactive workshops that highlight the connection to the achievement of the SDGs.
United Nations Negotiation Simulations: Students will step into the roles of country representatives and key stakeholders to engage in simulated discussions and debates on urgent global challenges such as negotiations of Security Council resolutions.
Participation
All workshop participants will receive a certificate of completion, signed by the Rector of the United Nations University. Participation fees will vary depending on the workshop’s content, format, and duration.
Contact
For collaboration opportunities or further inquiries, please contact:
Frequently asked questions
1) What is the UNU Student Workshop Programme?
The UNU Student Workshop Programme is a short-term academic programme hosted at the United Nations University Headquarters in Tokyo.
The programme introduces students to the United Nations system, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and contemporary global policy challenges through lectures, discussions, and interactive activities.
Its educational objectives include:
- Enhancing understanding of multilateral cooperation and global sustainability issues
- Encouraging critical thinking on international challenges
- Developing communication, negotiation, and policy discussion skills
- Promoting international and intercultural understanding
Participants who complete the programme will receive an official Certificate of Completion issued by the United Nations University.
2) What activities are included in the programme?
The programme may include:
- Lectures by personnel from the UNU Centre (Rector’s Office) and other UNU institutes, other UN agencies, and external academic partners of UNU
- Discussions on global sustainability and multilateral cooperation
- Interactive workshops and negotiation simulations
- Networking opportunities
- Welcome reception
- Cultural and academic exchange activities
Most programme activities are conducted at the UNU Headquarters campus in Tokyo, though optional off-site educational or cultural visits may occasionally be arranged.
3) How long is the programme?
The standard programme is designed as a three-day workshop programme. A draft agenda can be shared upon request to help institutions better understand the programme structure.
4) Where does the programme take place?
The programme is held at the United Nations University Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. Online courses may also be considered for groups unable to travel to Japan.
5) Is the programme an official UNU activity?
Yes. The Student Workshop Programme is organised by the United Nations University Headquarters in Tokyo, including personnel from the Office of the Rector and other UNU institutes.
6) What makes the UNU Student Workshop Programme unique?
The programme offers students a rare opportunity to experience the work and environment of a United Nations institution in Tokyo, while engaging directly with experts working on global sustainability, policy, and development issues.
The programme combines academic learning with practical exposure to multilateral dialogue and international cooperation.
7) What is the programme fee?
The standard programme fee is:
- USD 37,500 per package (for up to 30 students)
The fee remains the same even if fewer than 30 students participate, as venue arrangements and programme coordination costs must be secured in advance.
For groups larger than 30 students:
- USD 1,200 per additional student
For larger groups or requests for special consideration regarding the standard programme fee, please contact Yan Sun (y.sun@unu.edu)
8) What is included in the programme fee?
The programme fee includes:
- Academic lectures and programme delivery
- Venue and ICT facilities
- A welcome reception on the first day of the programme
- Daily refreshments and lunch
- Visa documentation support
- Certificates of Completion
- Administrative support throughout the programme
9) What is not included in the fee?
The programme fee generally does not include:
- International airfare
- Accommodation
- Local transportation outside the programme
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
10) What is the recommended group size?
The standard programme package is designed for up to 50 students. Institutions may also send larger groups, with an additional fee applied per extra participant. Smaller groups are also possible; however, the minimum package fee remains applicable.
11) Are scholarships or funding opportunities available?
At present, the programme does not provide scholarships or direct funding support. Participating institutions are encouraged to arrange their own sponsorship or funding arrangements where necessary.
12) What are the available programme dates?
UNU is flexible regarding scheduling, subject to venue and speaker availability around all year round. Institutions are encouraged to contact UNU early to discuss preferred dates.
13) Who can participate in the programme?
The programme is suitable for:
- University students
- Senior high school students
- Students with interests in international relations, public policy, sustainability, diplomacy, Model United Nations (MUN), and related fields
Students from other academic disciplines are also welcome. Programme content and delivery methods may be adjusted depending on the academic background and needs of participating groups.
14) Is English proficiency required?
Yes. As the programme is conducted entirely in English, participants should possess sufficient English proficiency to actively engage in lectures, discussions, and interactive sessions. However, no English proficiency documents are required.
15) Is visa support provided?
Yes. UNU can provide visa invitation letters and supporting documentation required for visa applications to Japan.
Participants are responsible for submitting their own visa applications to the relevant Japanese embassy or consulate, as well as covering any relevant visa fees.
16) Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who complete the programme will receive an official Certificate of Completion issued by the United Nations University.
17) Can the programme be customized?
Yes. Depending on institutional interests and scheduling availability, certain programme themes, lectures, or activities may be adjusted or tailored for participating groups.
Customization is subject to speaker, venue, and operational availability.
18) How can institutions apply or express interest?
Institutions interested in participating may contact UNU directly to:
- Request additional information
- Arrange an online consultation meeting
- Discuss programme dates and logistics
- Receive a draft agenda and participation details
19) What documents are required for participation?
Specific requirements may vary depending on the institution and programme schedule. Generally, participating institutions may be asked to provide:
- Student participant list
- Passport information
- Institutional nomination or confirmation
- Emergency contact information
Further details will be provided during the coordination process.
20) Does UNU assist with accommodation arrangements?
Accommodation is not included in the programme fee. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering their own accommodation costs.
21) What supervision, safety, and conduct arrangements are provided?
UNU personnel and programme coordinators are present throughout official programme activities and sessions.
Participating institutions are generally expected to ensure appropriate supervision of their own students outside official programme activities.
Participants are expected to behave respectfully and professionally throughout the programme, in line with the academic and international environment of UNU.
Some sessions or programme activities may be photographed or recorded for administrative, educational, or promotional purposes.