THE CITIES
PROGRAMME
Empowering Leaders:
Navigating Complexity, Driving Sustainability
Image: Housing and Development Board, Singapore
OVERVIEW
The Cities Programme equips participants with the knowledge, networks, and strategic insight needed to lead sustainable and inclusive urban transformation. Through deep immersion in professional, corporate, and political ecosystems across Southeast Asia and beyond, it catalyses high-impact public-private collaboration to deliver innovative solutions for cities. As megacities rise across Asia and beyond, the demand for professionals capable of navigating the complexities of urban governance is more critical than ever.
| CITIES AS COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Participants will explore the nuanced trade-offs of critical issues such as transport and mobility, public health, housing and climate change. |
| STRATEGIC CROSS- SECTORAL COLLABORATIONS Establish invaluable connections with urban thought leaders in Singapore’s private enterprise and political scenes. |
| REAL-WORLD IMPACT
Empower participants with the knowledge, networks and skills to effect positive change in their respective urban contexts. |
PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
The Cities Programme offers a dynamic, immersive experience that connects participants with leading professional, corporate, and political networks across Southeast Asia and beyond. With a strong emphasis on hands-on problem solving and collaboration, the programme is designed to catalyse strategic public-private partnerships that drive innovative urban solutions. Lectures are interspersed with learning journeys, urban workshops, and fireside chats, ensuring that taught content remains grounded in real-world relevance.
A detailed course schedule will be disseminated to participants.
IMMERSIVE LEARNING JOURNEYS
Engage in immersive learning journeys that provide a deeper understanding of urban systems and strategies in addressing complex urban challenges.
ADMISSION INFORMATION
| Target Demographics | Local and international professionals seeking to complement their primary discipline with expertise in city development and urban management, while building a global network of strategic collaborators. |
| Experience | Experienced professionals with proven leadership in urban governance or the built environment, bringing domain expertise and a strong commitment to shaping future-ready cities. |
| Academic Qualifications | Open to all disciplines |
Financial support is available for eligible participants and prioritised for public sector leaders and government officials from developing cities. Discounted rates may also be offered to long-term partners and group registrations.
If you wish to be considered, please email us at nuscities@nus.edu.sg with a brief note providing relevant background for consideration.
DATES & VENUE
Inaugural Run (2025): 21 - 27 September (7 days)
Venue: National University of Singapore
General Applications are Open!
Applications are open for the inaugural run in September 2025.
All participants are strongly advised to apply by August 15, 2025.
Participants will be contacted upon confirmation of application.
For any enquiries, contact us at nuscities@nus.edu.sg.