Applications are currently being accepted for the 2026 edition of the German Development Institute’s Managing Global Governance (MGG) Academy. The MGG Academy is a global training and exchange programme created for early- to mid-career professionals who are actively contributing to the future of international cooperation and sustainable development. It connects specialists and practitioners from government bodies, policy institutes and research centres, civil society organisations, and the private sector across Brazil, China, the European Union, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and South Africa. Through a mix of academic input, leadership training, and practical collaboration, the programme offers an international and diverse learning setting focused on real-world challenges.

The programme is built around strengthening an open and reliable international network, encouraging learning through a wide range of perspectives that may sometimes differ, and supporting participants in developing the skills needed to lead transformation and work effectively in complex global environments. It also places strong emphasis on cooperation, reflection, and the ability to engage constructively across cultures and professional backgrounds.

To be eligible, applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of one of the participating countries and must be working on topics related to global governance and/or sustainable development. They are expected to hold a university qualification of at least a Bachelor’s degree and have between three and fifteen years of relevant professional experience. A strong command of English is required, including the ability to contribute actively in group discussions and to engage with the learning modules by reflecting on and sharing their perspectives. Applicants must also provide written confirmation of support from their employer as part of the application process.

Participants should be prepared to join a demanding full-time programme that runs at an intensive pace, with an expected workload of around eight hours per day and forty hours per week. They should demonstrate cultural sensitivity, openness to teamwork, flexibility in adapting to different working styles, and willingness to reflect on both shared and personal experiences, attitudes, and competencies throughout the programme.

The MGG Academy offers participants a global learning journey that promotes systems thinking, a highly interactive experience built on dialogue, and access to a long-term interdisciplinary network. Those selected receive full coverage for participation in all programme components, accommodation throughout each stage, and a living-cost allowance totalling 2,200 euros for the 2026 programme, paid in three instalments. The support package also includes health, accident, and personal liability insurance, a monthly local public transport pass, and coverage of travel expenses related to MGG Academy activities within Germany and across Europe.

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