Are you a student, early-career researcher, or civil society practitioner committed to shaping Myanmar’s future?
The University of British Columbia’s Myanmar Initiative and ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute’s Myanmar Studies Programme invite applications for the Myanmar Emerging Leaders: 2026 Policy and Leadership Program, a two-day intensive training program to be held on February 12–13, 2026 in Singapore. This program is supported by the Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM) initiative of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
Program Overview
The program provides a dynamic learning experience combining lectures, group discussions, and hands-on exercises. Participants will deepen their understanding of critical governance and conflict issues relevant to Myanmar’s evolving political landscape. Sessions are led by a diverse group of scholars and practitioners with regional and global expertise. Around 25 participants will be selected, including students from National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore Management University and other regional institutions.
Core Modules
Participants will explore the following thematic areas:
- Federalism: Comparative models and institutional trade-offs in divided societies
- Civil-Military Relations: Foundational concepts and comparative perspectives
- Myanmar’s International Relations: The role of key external actors and global dynamics
- Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion: Community-level reconciliation and inclusive dialogue
Simulation Exercise
The final day will feature a policy simulation in which participants act as key stakeholders in a negotiated political scenario. Working in teams and guided by faculty mentors, participants will practice strategic thinking, negotiation, and applied political analysis. This experiential exercise is designed to reinforce core concepts and foster deeper engagement.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome applications from:
- Students focused on governance, politics, conflict, or development
- Early-career researchers working on Myanmar-related issues
- Civil society professionals and practitioners committed to public leadership
Applicants must have a demonstrable interest in governance, policy, or peacebuilding in the Myanmar context. The program will be conducted in English.
This training is primarily intended for Singapore-based participants, though applications are also welcome from individuals who are able to self-fund their travel.
Application Deadline: February 3rd, 2026
How to Apply:
Interested individuals should submit an online application below including a brief statement of interest and CV.
Application Link: https://forms.gle/tLKE8xZZWyVwEMtd9
There is no cost to participate in the program.
For further queries, contact myanmar.sppga@ubc.ca.
About the Organizers
This program reflects a shared commitment by the UBC Myanmar Initiative and ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute’s Myanmar Studies Programme to inclusive, evidence-informed capacity-building in support of Myanmar’s democratic and peaceful future. This program aims to cultivate a new generation of informed, principled, and connected policy leaders.