ASEAN-EU Summer School

Transnational Lecture-Workshop on Disaster Preparedness and Resilience

The 2025 edition of the STEAR Summer School, co-organized by Student Think Tank on Europe-Asia Relations (STEAR) and University of the Philippines Tacloban College (UPTC)

A 6-day hybrid program fostering disaster preparedness, ASEAN-EU transnational collaboration, and solutions for climate aware and caring societies

The ASEAN–EU Summer School was the first-of-its-kind collaborative initiative between STEAR and UP Tacloban College, tackling urgent issues of climate change, disaster preparedness, community resilience, and transnational cooperation. The program combined a 2-day online educational component with a 3-day on-site group work program hosted at the University of the Philippines Tacloban College in Tacloban City, Philippines.

From more than 250 applications, 35 youth participants from across ASEAN and the EU were selected to take part. Together, they engaged in lectures, discussions, and hands-on teamwork, culminating in a “Dream Project” social pitch—an actionable, transnational pilot project. These projects blended participants’ own experiences and expertise with the new knowledge and skills gained during the program, resulting in innovative, context-sensitive solutions for disaster preparedness and community resilience.

STEAR Asia-Europe Summer Program
2025 Edition

Date

July 28–
August 2, 2025
(6 days)

Location

Online + University of the Philippines Tacloban College (UPTC) (on-site)

Format

Education Session (5 Online Lectures) + Workshop (On-site Group Project)

Participants

10 Asian and 10 European participants from diverse backgrounds

Program Schedule

DAY 1 – 2 | Five Educational Lectures led by professionals (online)

DAY 3 | Travel break

DAY 4 – 5 | Two Sector Professional-led Workshops & Group Project “Our
Dream Project” Pitch (on-site)

DAY 6 | “Our Dream Project” Presentation

Themes & Activities

Educational Sessions

Learn from ASEAN and European experts from NGOs, International and Local Organization, Private Sector and Academia across five themes:

Rebuilding Urban and Rural Communities
Protection of the vulnerable: Elderly, Children and Women
Green Economy: Private Sector Engagement
Political Collaboration and Civil Society
Technology and Sustainable Development

Workshop Session: Design a Social Action Pitch “Our Dream Project”

Throughout the on-site phase in Paris and Tacloban, participants will collaborate in small, creatively matched groups to develop a "Dream Project" focused on one of five core themes. Using written, audio-video, or artistic-visual formats, participants will co-create innovative social action pitches that propose practical solutions to strengthen community resilience, transnational cooperation and environmental sustainability.

These pitches, inspired by personal experiences and enriched by expert sessions, will be presented at the program’s conclusion before a panel of partner organizations and published across STEAR’s and collaborators' platforms to inspire future real-world initiatives.

Cultural Exchange and Networking Opportunities

Enjoy on-site activities like social activities and city tours!

Eligibility

Must be 18 to 35 years old
EU and ASEAN nationals with strong interests in climate justice, disaster preparedness/resilience, and youth leadership
⁠⁠Proficient in English (at least CEFR level B2/upper-intermediate)
Youth based in Tacloban or Eastern Visayas are especially encouraged to apply
Available for online sessions (July 28–29) AND on-site program in Tacloban City (July 30–August 2)

What Will You Gain?

Expand Your Voice and Expertise

You will deepen your understanding of disaster response and climate resilience by engaging directly with experts, first responders, and policymakers. You'll also gain practical, hands-on experience and strengthen your interdisciplinary perspective.

Collaborate Across Borders

You will explore key themes such as community rebuilding, green economies, and nature-based solutions through sessions led by top professionals. Working in dynamic, cross-cultural teams, you will develop collaboration, project management, and innovative problem-solving skills.

Build a Strong International Network

You will connect with like-minded peers, NGOs, and partner universities across Europe and Asia, expanding your professional network and gaining valuable exposure to initiatives that could lead to future collaborations and career opportunities.

Shape the Global Conversation

You will contribute to advancing global discussions on disaster resilience and climate action by producing creative, impactful materials and actionable recommendations. Your work will strengthen cooperation between Europe and Asia and enhance your visibility as a future leader.

By participating, you will not only build essential skills and meaningful connections but also leave a lasting impact on efforts to foster community resilience and international cooperation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for more than one position?

Yes, you can apply for multiple positions. You need to resubmit the application form so that we receive separate applications tailored for each position. However, we strongly encourage you to apply to no more than 3 positions in total.
Are the positions paid?

No. All the positions are remote and voluntary, as STEAR is a youth-led think tank. However, STEAR will offer you valuable opportunities, network and professional development programs.
I feel like I am not qualified for any position, should I apply?

Absolutely yes. Don't self-reject, we welcome anyone regardless experience, nationalities, and social backgrounds. If you are not selected for now, there will be other openings regularly.
Do you have any fixed hours?

No, we don't. We are all students, so we understand that you will have other commitments. The workload will be flexible during your exam periods, so you can balance between your studies and your work at STEAR.
Do you offer internship opportunities?

STEAR is a volunteer-run organisation, therefore, we cannot offer any internships.