ASEF Training and Youth Summit in Denmark Offers Fully Funded Opportunity for Young Leaders

The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) is offering a fully funded Training and Youth Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark, providing a unique opportunity for young professionals to enhance their skills in science and technology diplomacy and foster cross-regional collaboration. The program, structured as a blended learning experience, combines online training sessions with an in-person summit, all at no cost to selected participants. Travel expenses, including airfare, visa fees, accommodation, and meals, will be fully covered by the organizers.

Blended Learning Approach: Online Training and In-Person Summit

The ASEF Training on Science and Technology Diplomacy will commence with a seven-week online training program from October 23rd to December 4th, 2025. This virtual component allows participants to engage in webinars and interactive workshops led by experts in the field, fostering peer-to-peer learning and enhancing practical skills. Selected participants from the online training will then be invited to attend the in-person Asia-Europe Youth Summit in Copenhagen from December 15th to 18th, 2025.

During the summit, young leaders will engage in discussions and present their perspectives on Asia-Europe cooperation in science diplomacy, expanding their professional networks across both continents. The program is designed to provide an enriching learning experience for young professionals working in science, technology, and international relations.

Program Details and Benefits

Host Country: Denmark Host Organizations: Central European Scientific Society of Innovation and Technology (CESSIT), Ministry of Foreign Affairs Denmark, Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) Summit Location: Copenhagen, Denmark Duration: Online Program: October 23 - December 4, 2025 In-person Program: December 15-18, 2025 Benefits: No registration or participation fee Fully funded travel, accommodation, and meals during the Youth Summit Engaging and interactive hybrid learning approach Opportunity to visit Denmark and network with international peers

Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the ASEF Training and Youth Summit, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be early-career professionals. Be up to 35 years old. Possess excellent verbal and written English language skills. Be proficient in the official language of their selected country (if applicable). Currently work as a Research or Science Manager in areas of international science and technology, or as Diplomats/Government Officials working in the fields of international cooperation and science and technology diplomacy. Be working in one of the eligible Asian or European countries (listed below).

Eligible Countries: Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Application Process

Interested applicants must apply through the online application form, providing personal information, contact details, and professional background. The application requires uploading a CV and describing the applicant's motivation for participating, experience in science and technology diplomacy, and how the program will contribute to their professional and personal growth. Applicants must also answer all questions in the form and agree to the terms and conditions before submitting.

Required Documents

Professional CV Passport Any Awards, Recognitions, or Certificates

Deadline The deadline to apply for the ASEF Training and Youth Summit is September 9, 2025.

The Importance of Science Diplomacy

Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in science diplomacy at the Institute for Global Affairs, emphasizes the growing importance of this field. "In an increasingly interconnected world, science diplomacy plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and sustainable development. Programs like the ASEF Training and Youth Summit are vital for equipping young professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex intersection of science, technology, and international relations." She further notes that the blended learning approach of the ASEF program is particularly effective, allowing participants to build a strong foundation online before engaging in face-to-face interactions and networking.

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) has been a key player in fostering collaboration between Asia and Europe for over two decades. Established in 1996, ASEF aims to promote greater understanding and cooperation between the two regions through various initiatives, including cultural exchanges, policy dialogues, and educational programs. The Training and Youth Summit builds on this legacy by focusing on science diplomacy, a field that has gained increasing prominence in recent years. As global challenges become more complex and interconnected, the need for effective science diplomacy has never been greater. This program directly addresses this need by empowering the next generation of leaders to build bridges between Asia and Europe through scientific collaboration.

Professor Kenji Tanaka, a specialist in international relations at the University of Tokyo, highlights the strategic significance of the ASEF program. "Initiatives like this are essential for strengthening ties between Asia and Europe, particularly in the face of evolving geopolitical landscapes. By fostering collaboration in science and technology, ASEF is contributing to a more resilient and interconnected global community."