The ITU Summer School in Netherlands 2025 is a prestigious and highly specialized Training Program organized by the United Nations University–Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT). Taking place in the vibrant academic hub of Maastricht, this five-day initiative aims to equip early-career professionals, digital policy practitioners, and public sector innovators with practical tools and global insights into sustainable digital transformation.

With global momentum accelerating toward digital economies, sustainable innovation, and inclusive governance, this summer school stands out as a critical learning platform aligned with the objectives of the United Nation to promote inclusive and ethical digital development. Participants from all over the world, particularly those from developing and emerging economies, are invited to explore the intersection between digital technologies and sustainable development in an immersive and collaborative setting.

By engaging directly with themes such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), digital agriculture, and responsible e-waste management, the summer school empowers participants to bring innovative solutions to their local and global challenges. It is not merely a short-term academic retreat—it is a long-term catalyst for policy impact, professional growth, and international networking.

Program Details

Host Country:
Netherlands

Program Location:
Maastricht, Netherlands

Program Dates:
23rd June – 27th June, 2025

Program Themes or Focus Areas:

• Digital Transformation

• Sustainable Development

• AI and Sustainability

• E-waste

• Digital Farming

Benefits

• Certificate of completion from the United Nations

• Free accommodation and meals for the full program duration

• Access to all educational workshops and sessions without additional cost

• No program participation fee for selected applicants

• Immersive cross-cultural exchange with professionals from diverse regions

• Hands-on group projects and policy dialogues with global mentors

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must hold a completed Bachelor’s degree (BA or BSc) in a relevant field such as Social Sciences, Engineering, Political Science, or a related discipline

• Must possess professional fluency in English

• Should currently be engaged in a project or role related to digital transformation or sustainability

• Government officials, policymakers, private sector professionals, and civil society actors with interest in digital innovation are strongly encouraged to apply

How to Apply

Follow these steps to submit your application for the ITU Summer School:

1. Visit the official ITU Academy portal

2. Create a personal account and confirm your email address

3. Complete your profile, including education and work experience

4. Respond thoughtfully to the application essay questions

5. Upload all necessary documents (CV, degree certificate, letter of intent, etc.)

6. Carefully review all submitted data

7. Submit your completed application

Application Deadline

Application Deadline: 15 March, 2025

This exceptional Summer Program hosted in the Netherlands is more than a training course—it is an opportunity to build meaningful international relationships, shape inclusive digital policy, and become a leader in sustainability-oriented innovation. Participants will leave Maastricht not only with a globally recognized certificate but also with deep knowledge, actionable skills, and a renewed sense of purpose for driving change in their respective sectors.

As digital transformation increasingly defines economic, political, and social systems across the globe, early-career professionals must be ready to lead with foresight, responsibility, and empathy. The ITU Summer School in Netherlands delivers that critical readiness. Whether you are a public servant aiming to improve your country’s digital governance or a practitioner interested in linking sustainability with smart technologies, this program offers unmatched value.

Moreover, the academic environment of UNU-MERIT—part of the United Nation family—ensures that all teaching and mentorship are grounded in global best practices, data-driven insights, and real-world relevance. This is a unique opportunity to learn directly from leading experts and apply those lessons in your home country through targeted innovation and ethical policymaking.

Successful applicants will also benefit from the beautiful and historic setting of Maastricht, a city known for its intellectual vibrancy, cross-cultural exchange, and proximity to major European institutions. The location enhances the learning experience by exposing participants to a dynamic European hub of policy, research, and innovation.

Importantly, the program is designed with accessibility in mind. By covering accommodation and meals and waiving tuition for selected applicants, the ITU Summer School opens doors for passionate individuals from resource-constrained contexts to participate fully. This democratization of opportunity aligns perfectly with global calls to make digital development inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.

From intensive workshops on AI and Sustainability to networking sessions with international peers, this Training Program ensures that participants emerge as changemakers who are prepared to lead in their communities and beyond.

Apply now to become part of a global cohort dedicated to rethinking how digital tools can serve humanity’s most pressing needs—while ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital future.