Celebrating Ten Years of Cross-Border Learning at PKU's South-South Institute

Celebrating a Decade of Cross-Border Learning

The South-South Institute for Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD) at Peking University recently celebrated its ten-year anniversary, marking a significant journey in the realm of international development education. Established in 2016, ISSCAD was founded on the premise that developing countries possess valuable knowledge that should be systematically explored and utilized for global progress.

As the gathering at the Yingjie Overseas Exchange Center unfolded on April 29, 2026, numerous distinguished guests, including students, alumni, and government representatives, converged to commemorate this important milestone. Among them was Ismail Zabeeh, a former minister from the Maldives and an ISSCAD alum, who expressed his commitment to pursuing firsthand knowledge about development in rapidly advancing nations.

The day's proceedings included a forum on sustainable development in the Global South, showcasing insights from various stakeholders involved in international collaboration. Notable figures, such as Justin Yifu Lin, the honorary dean of ISSCAD and former chief economist of the World Bank, underscored the uniqueness of the institute's approach, which relies on the developmental experiences of both China and other developing countries.

The event featured a flag raising ceremony, united attendees from over 80 countries, symbolizing a collective commitment to fostering advancement across the Global South. This vibrant gathering celebrated the diverse backgrounds represented at ISSCAD, with strong participation from African, Asian, and Latin American countries alongside others from the Pacific region.

Since its inception, ISSCAD has successfully trained numerous high-ranking officials and diplomats, providing them with master’s and doctoral programs that integrate academic research with practical policy work in China. As the institute progresses into its second decade, leadership remains focused on enhancing its role as a premier hub for academic innovation and knowledge exchange specifically tailored for developing countries.

The narratives from various alumni reflect a profound impact as many have gone on to influence policies and participate actively in their home countries' development agendas. Eric Dodoo-Amoo, another significant ISSCAD graduate and head of the China department in Ghana’s Ministry of Finance, highlighted that the insights gained from the institute directly translate to policy benefits in his nation.

As discussions continue around the essence of South-South cooperation, Arkebe Oqubay, a former senior minister of Ethiopia, referred to the next decade as a critical window for strengthening this partnership among developing nations. He emphasized the importance of shared knowledge and collaboration to address common challenges and seize growth opportunities.

Abigail Shoniwa, Zimbabwe's Ambassador to China, noted that the lessons imparted through ISSCAD programs are having direct repercussions on the policymaking process within her country, illustrating the tangible and transformative effects of this educational approach.

As the celebration concluded, a vision for the future was palpable. With aspirations to further solidify its reputation on the global stage, ISSCAD aims to continue evolving as an institute that not only educates but also empowers the next generation of leaders in development, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary tools to tackle challenges and foster growth that benefits their respective communities.

This landmark anniversary serves as a reminder of the power of educational initiatives in bridging divides and fostering cooperation among countries, cultivating a brighter future for all involved.

As Peking University reflects on ten years of progress, it looks ahead to the promise of years to come, filled with dedication to nurturing talent and enhancing international collaboration across the Global South.