From Scholars to Changemakers: Strengthening Youth Leadership Across Asia
KAS scholars and young leaders from South and Southeast Asia came together in Singapore to exchange perspectives on leadership, democracy, global security, climate action and regional cooperation.
The programme brought together KAS scholars from Nepal, Bangladesh and India, members of the South Asian Youth for SDGs (SAYS), university students, academics, security practitioners and KAS partners. Through expert discussions, youth-led presentations and practical workshops, participants explored how young people can contribute meaningfully to democratic and societal processes.
A key highlight was the Leadership Dialogue at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), which attracted approximately 62 registered participants from different countries and professional backgrounds. Discussions focused on emerging security challenges, responsible leadership, digital safety, artificial intelligence, public trust, decision-making, social cohesion and organisational resilience.
The dialogue encouraged participants to look beyond traditional understandings of security and consider how technological, environmental and social developments affect communities across Asia. KAS scholars actively exchanged perspectives with experts and students, reflecting on how these challenges are experienced in their own countries.
SAYS members presented their initiatives in Bangladesh, India and Nepal, demonstrating how young people are translating the Sustainable Development Goals into practical action within their communities. The presentations provided them with an opportunity to share their experiences with an international audience and receive feedback from academics, students and practitioners.
The programme also included participation in the Conference of the Pacific Alliance, an editorial workshop and a preparatory workshop for COP17 in Mongolia. The editorial workshop strengthened the scholars’ writing and communication skills, helping them document their experiences and the impact of their work more effectively. The COP17 preparatory workshop clarified their respective roles, deepened their understanding of the conference themes and supported them in preparing their presentations.
Throughout the programme, the scholars demonstrated growing confidence by presenting their work, moderating sessions and contributing actively to international discussions. The combination of expert input, interactive dialogue and youth-led activities helped strengthen their leadership and communication skills while encouraging greater cooperation between young people from South and Southeast Asia.
The programme also further strengthened the partnership between KAS, SUSS and the participating youth networks. It provided a valuable foundation for the scholars’ subsequent participation in COP17 and their continued engagement through SAYS and other regional initiatives.
