🌍 Future Leaders Programme 14 at SOAS: Industrial Policy for Structural Transformation in the Global South (Apply by 20 April 2026)

The Future Leaders Programme (FLP 14), hosted by the Development Leadership Dialogue (DLD) at SOAS University of London, is a prestigious, high-level leadership workshop designed for experienced professionals shaping the future of economic development in the Global South.

This intensive programme brings together emerging leaders from across sectors to explore industrial policy, structural transformation, and sustainable development strategies in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

📌 Programme Overview

The Future Leaders Programme is a flagship initiative of the Development Leadership Dialogue, co-directed by leading development economists including Ha-Joon Chang, Christopher Cramer, and Jonathan Di John.

The programme aims to bridge gaps between key development actors—governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and international organizations—through dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning.

Participants will engage in:

• Expert-led lectures

• Interactive discussions and debates

• Real-world case studies

• Peer-to-peer learning with global professionals

📅 Key Details

• Programme Dates: 22–26 June 2026

• Location: London, United Kingdom

• Application Deadline: 20 April 2026

• Programme Fee: £3,000

• Scholarships: Limited full and partial funding available

🎯 Focus Area: Industrial Policy in the Global South

This year’s theme—Industrial Policy for Structural Transformation in the Global South—addresses one of the most critical challenges facing developing economies today.

Participants will explore:

1. Economic Transformation Challenges

• Premature deindustrialization

• Over-reliance on commodity exports

• Low-productivity service sector growth

2. Climate and Sustainability Pressures

• Balancing development with climate responsibility

• Leveraging renewable energy opportunities

• Addressing ecological degradation

3. Technology and Innovation

• Digital transformation and AI

• Technology transfer and global inequality

• Investment in R&D and skills development

4. Global Economic Shifts

• Changing geopolitical dynamics

• South-South cooperation

• Evolving trade and policy environments

🧠 What You Will Gain

Participating in FLP 14 offers:

• Direct engagement with globally recognized experts and policymakers

• Deep insights into industrial policy design and implementation

• Exposure to real-world development challenges and solutions

• A powerful network of high-level professionals across sectors

• Practical tools for influencing policy and driving economic transformation

🎤 Confirmed Speakers

The programme features distinguished speakers from top institutions and policy backgrounds, including:

• Antonio Andreoni (SOAS)

• José Miguel Ahumada (University of Chile)

• Andres Arauz (Former Minister, Ecuador)

• Yemi Dipeolu (Former Economic Advisor, Nigeria)

• Isabel Estevez (Mexico)

• Jostein Hauge (University of Cambridge)

• Verena Hitner (Brazil Ministry of Science)

• Amir Lebdioui (University of Oxford)

• Pamela Mondliwa (South Africa)

• Richard Kozul-Wright (SOAS, former UNCTAD Chief Economist)

• João Silva (University of Lisbon)

• Yin Shao Loong (Malaysia)

📝 Application Process

Applicants must complete an online application form and provide:

• A personal statement outlining their views on industrial policy challenges in the Global South

• Evidence of relevant professional experience

• Demonstration of leadership potential and future impact

Applicants seeking financial support must:

• Clearly explain their financial situation

• Specify the amount of funding required

APPLY HERE. 

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⚠️ Important Considerations

This is a highly selective and intensive programme with a small cohort. Applicants should carefully consider:

• The total cost (programme fee + travel and accommodation)

• The competitive selection process

• The advanced level of discussion and participation required

🚀 Final Thoughts

The Future Leaders Programme 14 is a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to deepen their understanding of industrial policy while building a global network of changemakers.

If you are committed to shaping economic transformation in the Global South and ready to engage at a high level, this programme could be a powerful step forward in your leadership journey.