On April 17, 2025, the Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management (Tsinghua SEM) marked the heartfelt conclusion of the first offline module of its Emerging Policymakers Program (EPP) for sustainable development in developing countries, marking a significant step forward in Tsinghua SEM’s efforts to cultivate interdisciplinary international talent.
The Emerging Policymakers Program, a collaboration with the Stanford University's Leadership Academy for Development, London School of Economics, and supported by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, is dedicated to equipping outstanding government officials from emerging economies and developing countries with the knowledge and skills in climate policy, and fostering their leadership to effectively address global climate challenges. The EPP is structured in two parts—online and offline—and spans a range of cutting-edge topics.From 23 developing countries, 36 outstanding delegates—78% of whom hold master’s or doctoral degrees and 51% of whom are women—gathered in China for a transformative learning journey. Their mission: to grow not only as climate policymakers but as global connectors and change-makers.
Spanning 27days across Beijing, Shanghai, and Zhejiang, the offline module comprised five key components: Tsinghua Professional Courses, Stanford Case-based Seminars, AIIB Climate Day, Corporate Visits, and Yangtze River Delta Region Field Study.
The program began with a seminar on climate finance and moved seamlessly into two weeks of intensive learning at Tsinghua SEM. Renowned faculty from Tsinghua, Stanford, and AIIB guided academic sessions that intertwined global policy frameworks with China’s distinctive experience in green innovation and sustainable development.
But the essence of the program was more than just lectures—it was a story lived; a connection built. From April 7 to 13, delegates traveled to Shanghai and Anji, Zhejiang, for the Yangtze River Delta field study, gaining firsthand insights into China’s implementation of high-quality development strategies.
The AIIB Climate Day on April 15 deepened delegates’ understanding of AIIB’s approach to climate finance, sustainable infrastructure, and its broader operational frameworks and also presented a great two-way learning platform for delegates to share insights, exchange experiences, and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges in Emerging Markets and Developing Countries (EMDCs).
At companies like Envision Group, Freshippo, Fosun International, and the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, they witnessed how Chinese enterprises are leading the charge in renewable energy, smart logistics, global health ecosystems, and advanced manufacturing.
In Zhejiang, a different kind of lesson unfolded. At the Yangtze River Delta Eco-Green Demonstration Zone, delegates discussed large-scale sustainable urban planning.
In Yu Village, they discovered a quiet, thriving countryside—far from stereotypical images—where a lecture on China’s rural development sparked deeper reflections on equity, governance, and opportunity.
At Anji, delegates saw how traditional agriculture is being reimagined through innovation. They stepped back into history at the Anji National Archaeological Park, and steeped themselves in China’s tea culture at the Anji White Tea Farm, before sharing smiles with pandas at the China Bamboo Expo Park.
Each stop was more than a visit—it was a moment of insight, a cultural exchange, and often, a spark of inspiration.
“I can’t find enough words to express my gratitude for the impeccable organization of this program,” one delegate shared. “Every detail was thoughtfully planned, making this month truly unique. I’ve learned more than I ever imagined, met amazing people, and created memories I’ll always cherish.”
The program ended where it all began—in reflection and hope. At the foot of the Great Wall, a cultural evening brought laughter, tears, and a sense of shared purpose. It was not just the close of a module, but the beginning of something greater.
Nguyen Dong Anh, a participant from the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared his hopes for the program’s future: “I really thank Tsinghua SEM for the incredible initiative and I really wish that you will run this program for another 10-20 years” he said. “So that more policymakers worldwide can benefit from this, and we can grow into a great network of young, energetic, and soon-to-be-successful friends.”
The launch of the EPP represents a vital initiative in confronting climate change and driving the transition toward a low-carbon economy. It provides an invaluable platform for policymakers from developing countries to learn, collaborate, and build capacity through international exchange.
As the program concludes, the story continues: in policymaking offices, village councils, climate summits, and beyond.
Now it is not the end. It’s not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.
Admissions for EPP 2026 are now officially open! We welcome young officials from developing countries to join us on this journey of global excellence in sustainable development. Let’s shape a greener future—together!
