Regional Gender Academy 2026
Image © ITCILO/Isotta dell’Orto
Regional Gender Academy 2026
Gender Equality, Inclusion and the Future of Work in Asia and the Pacific
16–27 November 2026
The course is available in English
Since its launch in 2011, the Gender Academy has become one of the flagship programmes of the International Training Centre of the ILO, fostering a global community of professionals committed to advancing gender equality and inclusion. Following the success of the inaugural Regional Gender Academy for Asia and the Pacific, the second regional edition will take place in Beijing, China, in partnership with the ILO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, bringing together policymakers, practitioners, social partners and development professionals from across the region.
Key Features
Regional Networks
Connect and collaborate with policymakers, practitioners and development professionals from across Asia and the Pacific.
Knowledge Exchange
Explore innovative approaches, practical tools and promising practices through plenary sessions, workshops, panels and peer-learning activities.
Future-Focused Learning
Address the major transformations shaping labour markets today—including AI, digitalization, demographic change and climate transitions—through a gender lens.
Introduction to the course
Across Asia and the Pacific, rapid economic transformation, digitalization, artificial intelligence and climate change are reshaping labour markets at an unprecedented pace. At the same time, persistent gender inequalities, informality and disproportionate care burden borne by women continue to limit inclusive and sustainable growth. The Regional Gender Academy 2026 provides a unique opportunity to explore these challenges and identify practical solutions. Bringing together policymakers, practitioners, social partners, researchers and development professionals from across the region, the Academy offers a dynamic platform for learning, dialogue, innovation and collaboration. More than a training programme, the Academy is a community of change-makers committed to advancing gender equality and building more inclusive futures of work throughout Asia and the Pacific.
Who attends this course?
The Academy is designed for professionals and decision-makers engaged in advancing gender equality and inclusion in the world of work across Asia and the Pacific, including: - Government officials; - Representatives of workers' and employers' organizations; - International and regional organizations; - Civil society organizations and NGOs; - Research and academic institutions; - Private sector professionals working on diversity, inclusion and responsible business conduct; - Independent consultants and development practitioners.
Why Join the Regional Gender Academy?
By joining the Academy, you will:
- Gain practical tools to design and implement gender-responsive policies and programmes in the Asia-Pacific context
- Stay informed on key trends and challenges shaping gender equality in the world of work across theregion
- Tailor your learning journey through a choice of thematic tracks and electives
- Learn from experts and exchange experiences with peers from across Asia and beyond
- Develop an actionable plan to apply your learning in your own professional contextEarn an official ITCILO Certificate of Achievement.
What are the key themes of the Academy?
The Regional Gender Acaemy explores key drivers of change shaping more inclusive labour markets and the future of work in Asia and the Pacific. Key topics include
Breaking Barriers to Equality
Addressing discrimination, informality and unequal access to decent work opportunities.
Closing Gender Pay Gaps
Promoting equal pay and improving access to quality jobs, particularly in global supply chains and export-oriented sectors.
Rebalancing Care and Work
Advancing transformative care policies and strengthening care systems in rapidly changing societies.
Ending Violence and Harassment
Promoting a safe, respectful and inclusive world of work in line with ILO Convention No. 190.
Skills for an Inclusive Future of Work
Addressing gender gaps in education, skills development, TVET and lifelong learning.
Gender Equality, AI and Digital Future of Work
Exploring how artificial intelligence and digitalization are reshaping opportunities and inequalities in the world of work.
A Gender-Responsive Just Transition
Ensuring that climate action and environmental policies create inclusive and sustainable opportunities for all.
How Does the Academy Work?
Participants begin their learning journey through an online phase featuring self-paced learning modules, live sessions and expert discussions designed to establish a common foundation of knowledge.
The residential phase in Beijing offers an intensive five-day learning experience combining plenary sessions with elective thematic workshops. Participants can tailor their learning pathway according to their professional interests while benefiting from peer exchange and collaborative learning.
The programme concludes with an applied assignment designed to help participants consolidate learning and develop practical actions for implementation in their own professional contexts.
Venue
The face-to-face phase of the Regional Gender Academy 2026 will take place in Beijing, China, at the Yuyang Hotel Beijing.
Certification
Participants who successfully complete all required learning activities will receive an official ITCILO Certificate of Achievement.
The programme also counts towards the ITCILO Diploma on Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
Price
Tuition fees: €1,960
Subsistance fees: €565
Total: €2,525
The tuition fee covers participation in all online and face-to-face learning activities, access to the eCampus platform and learning materials, medical insurance as well as certification upon successful completion of the Academy.
The subsistence fee covers full board and lodging during the residential phase of the Academy , including accommodation in a superior room at Yuyang Hotel, daily breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The fees do not include international travel, visa costs, personal expenses or any other item not listed above.
Financial Support
A limited number of partial fellowships may be available for qualified candidates.
Priority may be given to applicants from ILO constituents (governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations) and to candidates from countries eligible for Official Development Assistance (ODA), in accordance with the latest OECD-DAC List of ODA Recipients.
Download the DAC list of ODA Recipients
Applicants wishing to be considered for a fellowship should indicate this in the application form and provide any supporting information requested during the application process.
ILO staff members are entitled to a 50% reduction on the tuition fee.
