Scholarship Overview
Overview
The Young Political Economy Forum (YPEF) Hong Kong 2026 brings together emerging leaders from across the world for intensive dialogue on the future of the global economy. This three-day residential forum combines academic rigour with practical leadership development, centred on the interconnected disciplines of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE).
For applicants from Zimbabwe and the SADC region, this represents a rare opportunity to engage with global economic policy discussions without bearing travel or accommodation costs. The forum’s explicit openness to all nationalities, combined with full funding support, removes typical financial barriers that often exclude African scholars from such international platforms.
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What the Forum Covers
The fully funded scholarship package includes:
- Return economy airfare to Hong Kong
- Accommodation throughout the forum period
- All meals and networking events
- Full access to forum sessions and materials
- Local transportation in Hong Kong
- Certificate of participation
This comprehensive support ensures participants can focus entirely on the programme content rather than logistical or financial concerns.
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Six Thematic Modules
The forum curriculum addresses contemporary global challenges through six interconnected modules:
- The Future of the Global Economy – macroeconomic trends, trade systems, and institutional frameworks
- Cities of the Future – urbanisation, smart cities, and sustainable development
- The Future of Work – automation, labour markets, and skills transformation
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship – startup ecosystems and economic dynamism
- The Digital Economy – fintech, data governance, and platform economies
- Sustainable Growth & Future Prosperity – climate economics and inclusive development
These modules are particularly relevant for African participants seeking to understand how global economic shifts affect regional development trajectories and how young leaders can shape policy responses.
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Eligibility Requirements
The forum welcomes applications from:
- Ages 16–40 years
- All nationalities and countries of residence
- Young leaders, university students, young professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, and researchers
- Those with demonstrated interest in global economics, politics, philosophy, leadership, or related fields
There are no restrictions based on current employment status, academic discipline, or institutional affiliation. Applicants with entrepreneurial experience, research backgrounds, or leadership track records are explicitly encouraged to apply.
Host Institution
The forum takes place at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK) in Sha Tin, New Territories. HSUHK is a well-regarded institution with established expertise in business, economics, and social sciences. The Centre for International Political Economy Studies (CIPES) serves as the primary organiser, bringing academic credibility and international networks to the programme.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official YPEF Hong Kong 2026 website. The process involves:
- Visit the official YPEF Hong Kong 2026 website
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the required application fee
- Submit all required materials before the deadline
Specific document requirements are not published in available materials; applicants should consult the official website for detailed instructions.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 22 October 2026
- Forum dates: 27–29 November 2026
- Main forum day: 28 November 2026
Why African Applicants Should Consider This Opportunity
For Zimbabwean and SADC region applicants, YPEF Hong Kong 2026 offers several distinctive advantages. The explicit age range starting at 16 creates access for exceptional young students who might be excluded from programmes requiring completed degrees. The inclusion of entrepreneurship as a valid qualification pathway recognises non-traditional career trajectories common in economies with limited formal employment.
The forum’s focus on sustainable growth and future prosperity directly addresses development challenges familiar to African contexts. Participants gain exposure to Asian economic development models—particularly relevant given growing Africa-Asia economic ties—while building international networks that can support future academic or professional endeavours.
The fully funded nature eliminates the financial risk that often deters African applicants from pursuing international opportunities. Unlike programmes requiring upfront payment with reimbursement, this scholarship covers costs directly, removing currency conversion burdens and payment logistics.
