Sanata Dharma University played host to the 14th installment of the Global Leadership Program (GLP), themed “Youth Empowerment in Intercultural Society: Towards a Rooted Global Citizenship” in Yogyakarta, Indonesia from August 12 to 18.
This annual event, organized by the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities—Asia Pacific (AJCU-AP), focused on nurturing young leaders equipped to address global challenges through intercultural understanding and engagement, according to a report by Radio Veritas Asia.
The week-long program attracted over 50 participants from notable institutions across the Asia-Pacific, including Sophia University, Ateneo de Manila University, and The University of Hong Kong, among others.
These young minds converged to explore critical sub-themes such as “Youth and Lifestyle,” “Youth and Belief Systems,” and “Youth and Social Economy,” which fostered in-depth discussions on the pivotal role of youth in a culturally diverse society.
The activities were designed to enhance participants’ leadership skills and included university presentations, fieldwork related to local social issues, and cultural performances that showcased the traditions of their respective countries.
This blend of academic exchange, cultural immersion, and practical engagement created a fertile environment for learning and intercultural dialogue.
The initiative goes beyond conventional learning paradigms by emphasizing rooted global citizenship—a concept that calls for a deep understanding and connection to one’s cultural identity while engaging globally.
Last year’s GLP, held in New Taipei City, Taiwan, focused on environmental sustainability, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts in the context of global citizenship.
