ECOSOC Youth Forum 2025

1. Background
The International Design Education (IDE) Project, initiated by the United Nations Technology Bank for LDCs (UNTB), the World Eco-Design Organization (WEDO), and the Zhejiang University Ningbo Innovation Center, aims to improve design education in LDCs through international collaboration. By providing youth with high-quality skills training in market-driven design, IDE enables them to create economic value and contribute to their countries’ sustainable development. This side event will explore how IDE can further support LDC youth in integrating into global value chains, enhancing their countries’ economic resilience and fostering long-term sustainable growth.

2. Objectives of the side event, including relation with the SDGs identified in the Guidelines
This side event aims to showcase how the International Design Education (IDE) project provides high-quality educational opportunities for youth in Least Developed Countries (LDCs), contributing to SDG 8: Promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all. By strengthening design education, LDC youth can acquire skills that meet international market demands, enhance their innovation and entrepreneurial capabilities, and drive the development of their local creative industries, ultimately boosting economic growth and global competitiveness.

3. Programme and names of speakers/panelists
Host: Professor Cheng Yao, Executive Dean of International School of Design, Zhejiang University
09:30-09:40 Opening Speech delivered by Zhengyu Hu, Director of the High-Quality Innovation Development Driving Center, Ningbo Global Innovation Center, Zhejiang University
09:40-10:10 We Work Together, Presentation delivered by Professor Fangtian Ying, Director General of World Eco-Design Conference
10:10-10:25 IDE Programe for SDG, presentation delivered by professor Shijian Luo, Dean of International School of Design, Zhejiang University
10:25-10:40 Design for Future, presentation delivered by one of the IDE Master Student
10:40-11:30 Table Talk
Mengru Xue, Associate Professor of International School of Design, Zhejiang University
Jiang Wu, Assistant Professor & PhD advisor, University of Nottingham Ningbo China
40 IDE Master Students