Celebrating a Decade of Global Education at Peking University's ISSCAD

A Decade of Global Education: ISSCAD

On May 3, 2026, Peking University's Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD) marked its tenth anniversary. This milestone was highlighted by a significant celebration held at the Jingjie International Exchange Center, which brought together students, alumni, and international dignitaries committed to sustainable development. Among the attendees were notable alumni such as Ismail Zabeeh, a former government minister from the Maldives, and Eric Dodoo-Amoo, the head of the China Department at Ghana's Ministry of Finance. Their presence underscored the global impact of ISSCAD's mission.

ISSCAD was established in 2016 with a forward-thinking objective: to cultivate a distinct body of knowledge regarding development through the experiences of developing nations. This initiative is vital in a world where education often reflects the western paradigm. As Justin Yifu Lin, the honorary dean of ISSCAD and former chief economist of the World Bank, articulated during the celebration, the institute's approach integrates the development experiences of China and other emerging economies, creating a unique educational offering.

The anniversary celebration featured an annual forum, which included government officials, researchers, and diplomats discussing the future of cooperation among developing countries. Che Kuang-cchai, chair of the Peking University Council, and high-ranking officials from China's international development cooperation agency, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Education reaffirmed their support for ISSCAD as a pivotal platform for nurturing talent and cross-border collaboration.

Keynote speaker Arkebe Oqubay, a leading expert on industrial policy in Africa and former chief minister of Ethiopia, emphasized that the coming decade is critical for deepening partnerships among Southern nations. Moreover, Zimbabwe's ambassador to China, Abigail Shoniwa, noted how policymakers in Zimbabwe have directly benefitted from insights gained through ISSCAD's programs.

The milestone event culminated in a vibrant light ceremony and a flag parade featuring participants from over 80 countries, symbolizing unity and shared aspirations among nations in the Global South. Over the past decade, ISSCAD has graduated numerous officials, diplomats, and researchers from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific, offering doctoral and master's programs that combine rigorous academic research with practical policy engagement in China.

As ISSCAD embarks on its second decade, Lin shared an ambitious vision for the institute, aiming to be a globally recognized center for research innovation and knowledge exchange among developing nations. This vision is not only ambitious; it reflects the growing need for a more nuanced understanding of development that resonates with the realities of the Global South.

ISSCAD's impactful journey thus far is a testament to the evolving landscape of international education, where perspectives from developing countries are increasingly shaping global dialogues and policies. As the institute continues to grow and adapt, its role in fostering cooperative educational frameworks will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the future development landscape.

In summary, the celebration of ISSCAD's tenth anniversary is not just a reflection of its past achievements, but a forward-looking statement about the integral role of developing countries in shaping global education and policy frameworks. As we look ahead, ISSCAD stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration in the quest for sustainable development between the Global South nations.