Symposiums

Nanjing Normal University, China

Organizer: Dr. Xiaohui Hu, Professor at Nanjing Normal University

Sustainability transitions have emerged as a critical framework for understanding the shift towards more sustainable and resilient socio-technical systems, particularly in response to climate change and resource constraints. Simultaneously, regional economic development increasingly focuses on how regions can restructure their socio-technical systems to align with environmental goals and equity while maintaining economic competitiveness. Recent global disruptions, such as geopolitical shifts, supply chain reconfigurations, and accelerated digitalization, have created new contexts and pressures for these transitions. This symposium examined how regions navigate these complex challenges, integrating ecological imperatives with economic restructuring in an evolving landscape, and explores the policies and strategies that could support just and inclusive transitions.

China Agricultural University, China

Organizer: Dr. Li Chai, Associate Professor in China Agricultural University

The symposium examined how innovation, finance, and governance can jointly advance environmental sustainability and inclusiveness within global value chains. In an era of ecological degradation, resource constraints, financial volatility, and climate-related risks, fostering balanced and responsible growth has become a shared international priority. The symposium encouraged analysis of how environmental, social, and financial considerations can be integrated into business strategies, policy frameworks, and innovation systems to enhance resilience and equity. Particular attention was given to how shocks such as extreme weather events and market disruptions test the adaptability of agri-food and resource-based supply chains, underscoring the need for stronger cross-sectoral and cross-border coordination. Key objectives included advancing understanding of green innovation, sustainable finance, and equitable resource governance in global trade networks. By bringing together insights from academia, industry, and policymaking communities, the symposium sought to generate actionable pathways toward sustainable, inclusive, and resilient global growth.

King's College London, UK

Organizer: Dr. Canh Thien Dang, Assistant Professor at King's College London

The rapid diffusion of Generative AI (GenAI) and large language models (LLMs) poses both opportunities and challenges for the development of human capital and the design of educational and labour market policies. While these technologies offer powerful tools for enhancing productivity, creativity, and personalised learning, their integration also raises questions about skill displacement, the future of work, and the evolving competencies required of graduates and employees. This symposium sought to investigate how GenAI can be effectively harnessed to complement rather than substitute human capabilities, and how educational institutions and organisations can adapt to cultivate AI literacy, critical thinking, and lifelong learning skills. Drawing on recent advances in AI-assisted learning environments, workforce analytics, and human–machine collaboration frameworks, the study aimed to provide evidence-based insights for aligning education and labour market systems with the demands of an AI-augmented economy.