One Young World Academy Introduction to Planetary Leadership

The One Young World Academy Introduction to Planetary Leadership is an online short course developed with the sponsorship of the InterAction Council. It introduces existential security threats, planetary leadership, and Strategy X-EXIST. The course includes an approximately 45-minute module, a short quiz, and a verified digital certificate. Applications close on 7 August.

Quick Overview

Programme: Introduction to Planetary Leadership
Opportunity Type: Online leadership course
Host Organization: One Young World Academy
Sponsor: InterAction Council
Programme Format: Online
Course Length: Approximately 45 minutes
Assessment: Short quiz
Application Deadline: 7 August

About the Introduction to Planetary Leadership Course

The course focuses on interconnected dangers facing humanity, from climate change to ungoverned artificial intelligence. It presents planetary leadership as a way for governments, scientists, communities, and young people to address these threats through cross-border cooperation and a shared long-term vision.

Participants will also explore Strategy X-EXIST. The strategy is built around four interconnected pillars:

• Planet
• People
• Peace
• Prosperity

Strategy X-EXIST calls for stronger global governance, early-warning systems, and responsible technology regulation. The course examines how young leaders can apply and advance these ideas through their work, communities, and professional fields.

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What Participants Will Gain

The course provides expert guidance and practical insight into planetary leadership and existential security threats.

Confirmed benefits include:

✓ Learning from InterAction Council representatives and global experts
✓ Exploring strategies for addressing major existential threats
✓ Understanding how young leaders can contribute to Strategy X-EXIST
✓ Applying the strategy’s principles across climate, health, peace, and technology governance
✓ Receiving a verified digital certificate from One Young World Academy after completion
✓ Guaranteed access to the InterAction Council’s Massive Open Online Course titled Planetary Leadership

The verified certificate can be shared on social media and included in a participant’s CV.

Course Content

The course consists of one comprehensive module titled:

Global and Planetary Security – Prevent and Reduce Risks from Existential Threats

The module lasts approximately 45 minutes. It begins with an introductory address by Dr Jo Nurse on existential security threats and the importance of planetary leadership.

A keynote speech then presents the InterAction Council’s Strategy X-EXIST. The course examines the four interconnected threat domains of Planet, People, Peace, and Prosperity.

It also explores the governance, advocacy, and intergenerational leadership approaches recommended by the strategy.

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Speakers and Learning Perspectives

The module brings together a leading sector expert and four young leaders working directly on existential challenges.

Their areas of work include:

• Climate tipping points
• Pandemic preparedness
• Peacebuilding
• Artificial intelligence governance

An accompanying action reading helps participants examine what Strategy X-EXIST requires from institutions, policymakers, and young leaders.

The course also considers how the next generation is developing systems, coalitions, and cultures of peace in response to these challenges.

Assessment and Certificate

The module includes a short quiz that tests participants’ understanding of its key concepts.

Participants who complete the course receive a verified digital certificate from One Young World Academy. The certificate demonstrates their engagement with planetary leadership and global security threats.

Who the Course Is For

The course is designed for people who identify with one or more of the following profiles:

• Professionals, civil servants, community organisers, business leaders, or NGO workers actively working to create change
• People addressing complex and overlapping challenges involving climate, public health, community safety, or emerging technologies
• Individuals who want to understand how different global issues connect and affect each other
• People committed to fairness, environmental protection, diverse local and traditional knowledge, and future generations
• Applicants seeking practical tools and operational approaches rather than theory alone
• Individuals who can test new approaches and influence change within an organisation, neighbourhood, community, or city
• People interested in using digital technology and data responsibly while protecting privacy and avoiding bias
• Leaders seeking habits that support personal well-being and long-term motivation

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Application Process

Applicants must use the official One Young World application portal.

The application form includes the following stages:

• Personal information
• Application questions
• Additional information
• Completion and submission

Applicants must provide their contact and personal details before proceeding through the remaining sections of the application.

Application Deadline

Applications for the Introduction to Planetary Leadership course close on:

7 August

Applicants should complete and submit the official online application before the stated closing date.

Official Link

Submit your application through the official application link below.

Apply for One Young World Academy: Introduction to Planetary Leadership