Latest news with #HLPF
IOL News
12 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
UCT students make history at the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development
Four UCT students at the UN Sustainable Development Forum. Image: UNPHOTO/Kiara Worth In a groundbreaking moment for youth representation in South African diplomacy, four University of Cape Town (UCT) students made history by representing their nation at the 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF). Taking place from 14-24 July at the UN Headquarters in New York, this significant event showcased the voices of youth as part of South Africa's official delegation—an unprecedented development in recent years. Suitably equipped with passion and a commitment to social responsiveness, the UCT delegation comprised Nico Pampier, Seabelo Mnisi, Zou Rwexwana, and Ben Gukelberger. The students participated through the United Nations Association of South Africa – UCT Chapter (UNASA-UCT), contributing to discussions centered on advancing science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year's forum reviewed five pivotal SDGs: SDG 3: Good health and well-being Good health and well-being SDG 5: Gender equality Gender equality SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth Decent work and economic growth SDG 14: Life below water Life below water SDG 17: Partnerships for the goals The HLPF serves as a vital platform bringing together global policymakers, academics, ministers, and civil society to assess collective progress towards achieving these ambitious goals. This inclusion of young voices reflects a growing recognition of the importance of youth engagement in addressing global challenges. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Mnisi, serving as the SDG education director, remarked on the transformative nature of the experience. 'The exposure to multilateral dialogue and international policymaking was profound,' he noted. 'Witnessing how different countries tackle development hurdles with innovative strategies has sharpened my understanding of how we can adapt such frameworks to serve South Africa's development goals.' Gukelberger, who took on the role of outreach director, emphasised the responsibility they bore in amplifying the voices of youth from the Global South. 'The most important part of my being at this forum was to echo the voices of students and youth that we work with now and in the future, at every event and interaction,' he expressed. Pampier, the executive chair, highlighted an urgent call to action for African countries. 'Agenda 2030 and Agenda 2063 are roadmaps for African countries to see young people as catalysts for change. We cannot let this be just a stocktaking experience; we must learn from both positives and challenges and take bold actions upon our return.' The forum witnessed the participation of over 250 young delegates from across the globe, indicating a promising trend towards inclusivity in international development conversations. Spearheaded by UCT's Department of Student Affairs' "Student Travel Fund," which supported the travel costs for three of the four delegates, this initiative aims to break down barriers that South African youth face in accessing international platforms. Upon their return, the UCT delegation has plans to translate their experiences into tangible impacts through student-led outreach, policy engagement, and awareness campaigns. They remain steadfast in their belief that universities play a crucial role in enhancing national development through research and evidence-based solutions. Their pioneering involvement not only sets a new precedent for youth participation in South Africa's foreign engagements but also reinforces UCT's dedication to shaping graduates who are prepared to lead in addressing global challenges.
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Global Ideation Lab builds sandbox for innovative ideas
The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, launched a Global Ideation Lab in collaboration with New York University (NYU). The Ideation Lab was held alongside the UAE delegation's participation at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs at the UN Headquarters in New York City. It brought together leading experts, academics, UN officials, diplomats, policymakers, and university students to explore new prospects in government sector innovation and global cooperation. The session drew participation from 26 ministers, experts, academics, and UN officials, including Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office of Partnerships, and Patrick Paul Walsh, Vice President of Education and Director of the SDG Academy at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). Attendees also included sustainability officials and diplomats from countries such as Switzerland, Portugal, Ireland, Serbia, Paraguay, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Kingdom of Eswatini, and others. Members of the UAE delegation to the HLPF, officials from NYU's administrative and academic bodies, and 30 students from NYU, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania also participated. Global Ideas Sandbox The Ideation Lab helps build a global ideas sandbox and provides a creative open space. It highlighted the developmental role of comprehensive initiatives supporting global partnerships, particularly the UAE's GEEP, which serves as an incubator for scalable cross-border partnerships and an effective knowledge sharing platform. UAE Commitment to expanding partnerships Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, stated that the UAE's knowledge-sharing approach is comprehensive, leveraging contributions across sectors locally and globally. The session drew participation from 26 ministers, experts, academics, and UN officials. This approach provides an environment for creating innovative ideas and impactful development solutions. 'In the UAE, we have successfully built a pioneering model for international cooperation based on knowledge exchange with countries and governments, and GEEP is a crucial part of this endeavour,' Lootah said. 'We are committed to involving various sectors, particularly academia, and cooperating with everyone in developing solutions to urgent global challenges, including developmental challenges, and expanding frameworks for sharing, transferring, and exchanging best government practices to help achieve sustainable development.' He added: 'The joint Global Ideation Lab between GEEP and NYU exemplifies the collaborative approach we adopt in the UAE to develop best practices that enhance readiness for present and future opportunities.' Challenge and solution model The Global Ideation Lab adopted a collaborative approach between GEEP and NYU, centred on posing challenges, linking academic insights with practical governance, and involving various stakeholders in designing partnership-based and scalable solutions. The session outcomes contributed to aligning knowledge inputs with policy, empowering stakeholders to participate in developing innovative solutions to urgent governance challenges, and accelerating progress towards the 2030 SDGs. UN High-Level Political Forum The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN's central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 Agenda. Participating delegations assess progress toward the SDGs, with this year's forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals: SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages); SDG5 (achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls); SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all); SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development); and SDG17 (strengthening and revitalizing the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development).
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE launches Global Ideation Lab workshop in New York
26 July 2025 13:23 NEW YORK (WAM)The Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), under the UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, launched a Global Ideation Lab in collaboration with New York University (NYU). The Ideation Lab was held alongside the UAE delegation's participation at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025, organised by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs at the UN Headquarters in New York City. It brought together leading experts, academics, UN officials, diplomats, policymakers, and university students to explore new prospects in government sector innovation and global session drew participation from 26 ministers, experts, academics, and UN officials, including Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the UN Office of Partnerships, and Patrick Paul Walsh, Vice President of Education and Director of the SDG Academy at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).Attendees also included sustainability officials and diplomats from countries such as Switzerland, Portugal, Ireland, Serbia, Paraguay, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Kingdom of Eswatini, and others. Members of the UAE delegation to the HLPF, officials from NYU's administrative and academic bodies, and 30 students from NYU, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania also Ideation Lab helped build a global ideas sandbox, and provided a creative open space. It also highlighted the developmental role of comprehensive initiatives supporting global partnerships, particularly the UAE's GEEP, which serves as an incubator for scalable cross-border partnerships and an effective knowledge sharing Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, stated that the UAE's knowledge-sharing approach is comprehensive, leveraging contributions across sectors locally and globally. This approach provides an environment for creating innovative ideas and impactful development solutions.'In the UAE, we have successfully built a pioneering model for international cooperation based on knowledge exchange with countries and governments, and GEEP is a crucial part of this endeavor,' Lootah said.'We are committed to involving various sectors, particularly academia, and cooperating with everyone in developing solutions to urgent global challenges, including developmental challenges, and expanding frameworks for sharing, transferring, and exchanging best government practices to help achieve sustainable development."He added, 'The joint Global Ideation Lab between GEEP and NYU exemplifies the collaborative approach we adopt in the UAE to develop best practices that enhance readiness for present and future opportunities.'The Global Ideation Lab adopted a collaborative approach between GEEP and NYU, centred on posing challenges, linking academic insights with practical governance, and involving various stakeholders in designing partnership-based and scalable session outcomes contributed to aligning knowledge inputs with policy, empowering stakeholders to participate in developing innovative solutions to urgent governance challenges, and accelerating progress towards the 2030 HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN's central platform for reviewing and advancing SDGs. Established in 2012, the forum plays a pivotal role in monitoring national and international progress on the 2030 delegations assess progress toward the SDGs, with this year's forum featuring in-depth reviews of five priority goals:-SDG3 (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages)-SDG5 (achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls)-SDG8 (promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all)-SDG14 (conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development)-SDG17 (strengthening and revitalising the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development)
Daily Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Tribune
UAE Reinforces Global Role in Sustainable Development at UN Forum in New York
The United Arab Emirates reaffirmed its strong commitment to sustainable development on the world stage at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development held in New York. The country's delegation showcased a wide range of forward-looking initiatives, partnerships, and preparations for its next national review in 2026, with a clear message: human development and innovation are at the heart of its vision for the future. Representatives from several key UAE government bodies and organizations took part in the forum, including the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Noor Dubai Foundation, and Dubai Chambers. Their presence demonstrated the country's unified approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering global partnerships. Pushing Forward with Innovation and Collaboration Leading the delegation, His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, emphasized the UAE's unique model of innovation and international cooperation. He introduced new initiatives like the 2045 XDGs Report, a vision for development beyond 2030, and GEEP, a program promoting global collaboration. 'We are committed to building a sustainable, inclusive future through innovation and strong partnerships,' HE Lootah said. 'Our efforts aim to tackle key global challenges like healthcare, economic development, biodiversity, and international stability.' He also confirmed that preparations are underway for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR), which will track the UAE's progress on the SDGs. The review will involve input from government, business, and civil society, reflecting the nation's dedication to transparency and teamwork. A Global Platform for Shared Progress The UAE also used the forum as a platform to showcase its global leadership. Events like the "Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future" exhibition and special sessions by GEEP helped build connections with nearly 50 countries and six international organizations. The launch of the 2045 XDGs Report stood out as a major moment, offering fresh insights and a long-term roadmap to build on the momentum of the current SDGs. This aligns with the UAE's belief that sustainable development requires both innovation and international dialogue. Addressing Key Issues: Gender, Youth, and the Environment The UAE also hosted sessions that tackled some of today's most pressing topics, including gender equality, child welfare, and digital inclusion. Discussions emphasized the role of women's leadership in driving sustainable development and the need to close the digital gender gap. The Ministry of Interior presented the Green Shield Operation, a cross-border environmental initiative to protect biodiversity in the Amazon Basin — a clear sign of the UAE's global responsibility beyond its borders. Looking Ahead The UAE is also preparing to host the UN Water Conference in December 2026, continuing its efforts to champion environmental and water sustainability. Over the course of the forum, the UAE held 48 bilateral meetings and participated in sessions like Science Day, further reinforcing its position as a leader in global cooperation. A Message to the World The HLPF serves as the UN's central platform for reviewing progress on the SDGs. For the UAE, it was an opportunity to show that sustainable development is not just a goal, but a way of working—through innovation, inclusion, and international partnership.
Business Recorder
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Rubio lauds Pakistan's anti-terror role, vows deeper ties in meeting with FM Dar
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday acknowledged Pakistan's sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and praised its constructive role in promoting regional stability, Aaj News reported. The remarks came during his first in-person meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, who is on an official visit to the United States. During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including agriculture, minerals, and digital technology. The delegation-level talks were attended by senior officials from both sides, including Pakistan's Ambassador to the U.S., Rizwan Saeed Sheikh. Dar received a warm welcome upon arrival and appreciated the U.S. leadership's efforts toward peace. He highlighted Pakistan's potential as an investment destination and reiterated the importance of deepening trade and technology collaboration. The deputy prime minister is also scheduled to speak at the US think tank, The Atlantic Council, sharing Pakistan's perspective on regional and global issues as well as the future of Pak-US relations. Pakistan's Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and senior embassy officials received Dar at the train station in the US capital. Reciprocal tariff: Pakistan officials to meet Trump administration, Bloomberg reports During his week-long visit, Dar attended high-level signature events of Pakistan's UN Security Council (UNSC) presidency in New York, while he met UN Secretary General António Guterres, on the sidelines of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, as well. A day ago, Bloomberg, quoting US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce as saying, reported that a Pakistani delegation will soon meet the administration of US President Donald Trump in a bid to reach an agreement on a trade deal. In a US Department of State press briefing on Wednesday, Bruce said she will attend the meeting between the Pakistani delegation and US officials. Islamabad is looking forward to the 29% reciprocal tariffs to be lifted that the Trump administration initially levied, Bloomberg said. The South Asian country has proposed to increase imports of soybeans and cotton, while it is already the second-largest buyer of US cotton by value, after China. Whereas, Pakistan's biggest export destination is the United States. Bilateral ties between Pakistan and US have improved in recent times, with Trump's holding a rare meeting with Field Marshal Asim Munir at the White House. The FO stated on July 19 that FM Dar's visit is an indication of Pakistan's increasing importance in both its relations with the US and the global landscape. Moreover, in order to complete a trade agreement, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has also visited the United States and met with US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington recently to advance economic cooperation, as per the Ministry of Finance. Reuters last week reported that the negotiations, focused on reciprocal tariffs, are part of a broader push to reset economic ties at a time of shifting geopolitical alignments and Pakistan's efforts to avoid steep US duties on exports.
