'The solutions for global challenges will only come if we build them together.'

"Never waste a good crisis." For me, it wasn’t about fear, but about ambition: the chance to set a new course.

What exactly did this revision involve? 

'We hosted a series of working sessions with leading experts from the field. That was the visible part. Behind the scenes, the team developed analyses and scenarios to test different futures. My guiding thought was simple: never waste a good crisis. We asked ourselves tough questions: Are we still reaching the right people? Does our approach fit today’s realities? How can we make the programme future-proof without losing its DNA?'

What were the most important changes that resulted from this? 

'Several, but three stand out. First, we broadened our scope to explicitly include business sustainability alongside international development. Today’s defining challenges – climate change, inequality, digitalisation – cannot be solved by governments or NGOs alone. Companies must be part of the solution. Lasting impact requires collaboration across sectors, and our participants need to be prepared for that reality. 

Second, we strengthened the programme’s role as a bridge between NGOs, governments, and businesses. By bringing participants from all three sectors into one international classroom, the programme equips them to break down silos, build partnerships, and connect policy with implementation. This cross-sector learning environment reflects the real-world dynamics of today’s global challenges and prepares participants to act as connectors in their professional field 

Third, we created new routes for participation. In addition to our traditional traineeship model in which we matched candidates to job positions, the programme now welcomes professionals who are already working in relevant roles. This lowers barriers and reflects realities in many countries, where people often pursue a master’s later in their careers. The result is a programme accessible to both young graduates at the start of their journey and mid-career professionals seeking to deepen their expertise.' 

When did you know: this is the right course? 

'During our very first workshop. We asked the hardest question: does this programme still have the right to exist? It was a tense moment. But the answer was decisive: Global Challenges is more relevant than ever. The experts urged us to sharpen, broaden and renew – but they also confirmed that our foundation is strong. That gave me, and the team, confidence.'

How does this revision relate to the name change to Global Challenges? 

'The decision to rename the programme was already taken in 2024. The old name, AMID, carries a direct reference to international development and its donor–recipient logic which we were becoming increasingly uncomfortable with. Global Challenges better expresses the realities we face today: complex global issues that require collaboration across sectors and countries. It is a name that reflects both our ambition and our relevance in the international arena.'

Will the programme remain recognisable for participants and alumni? 

'Absolutely. The heart of the programme remains: we train professionals to become strategically minded change agents, with confidence, reflective ability and connective power. The integration of work and study, the emphasis on personal development and critical thinking– all of this remains. I think the changes we have made, and are making, makes the programme sharper, more inclusive and future-proof. Alumni can remain proud of what they achieved – and curious about what is being added now.'

We train professionals to become strategic change-makers, equipped with confidence, reflective capacity and the ability to connect.

What can we expect from you in the coming period? 

'Two priorities. First, to translate the new vision into a new curriculum and make sure that is strong and coherent, and adds value. Second, to secure the programme’s future – diversifying income, which includes more engagement with organisations outside the development sector such companies and social entrepreneurs.  

But this is not something I can do alone. Alumni and partners are essential. I don’t just invite them – I challenge them: reconnect with us. Help make this programme bigger, bolder, more international. Bring us into contact with organisations that believe in breaking silos. Share with us your thoughts about what is needed, lecturers, case studies, to truly bridge international development and global business sustainability. The challenges of today will not wait – and the solutions will only come if we build them together.'

The next cohort of the Master in Global Challenges will begin on 1 February 2026. Both organisations and participants can engage in the programme through various pathways. The Master in Global Challenges trains strategic professionals to effectively tackle complex global challenges. It focuses on issues in low- and middle-income countries and bridges the gap between international development and sustainable business. NGOs, companies and governments share their knowledge and networks, enabling participants to learn how to think across sectors, connect stakeholders and create sustainable solutions.