The Challenges of ACLP 3 Shaping Climate Leaders in Asean This title captures the main theme of the post, which is about the third iteration of the Asean Climate Leadership Program (ACLP) and its goal of shaping climate leaders in the region. The use of Challenges in the title suggests that the program faces difficulties in achieving its objectives, but also implies that overcoming these challenges will lead to positive outcomes.

The Challenges of ACLP 3 Shaping Climate Leaders in Asean

As the world continues to grapple with the complexities of climate change, it is essential that countries vulnerable to its adverse effects work together towards a unified response. The Asean Climate Leadership Program (ACLP) has taken this challenge head-on by embarking on its third iteration, ACLP 3, which aims to shape climate leaders in the region.

The Importance of Strengthening Climate Leadership

Asean countries are particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change due to their long coastlines, dependence on agriculture and forestry, and land-use sectors. By strengthening climate leadership, we can drive collective action towards a more sustainable future. The ACLP 3 program recognizes the critical role that leaders play in addressing this crisis.

ACLP 3 A Six-Month Program

The program officially commenced with its opening session and first module lectures held virtually on January 22-23. This six-month initiative is designed to increase knowledge, strengthen skills, and foster attitude shifts in leadership, particularly in the thematic areas of climate policy, climate-smart agriculture (CSA), and inclusivity.

Blended Learning Modality

ACLP 3 marks a significant departure from previous runs by offering a blended learning modality through online and face-to-face sessions held in Bali, Indonesia, and Bangkok, Thailand. This innovative approach aims to provide participants with a comprehensive learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications.

Participants

Twenty-nine official participants representing Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam were selected from over 100 applicants across Asean member states. These leaders will have the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills by initiating ideas and facilitating change through personal projects that will benefit their chosen sector or community.

Technical Support

Seameo Searca provides technical and knowledge management support to ACLP 3. Its projects will drive collective and cross-sectoral transformative actions in agriculture, forestry, rural development, food security, and climate policy.

Keynote Addresses

During the ACLP 3 opening, senior officers and experts emphasized the importance of concerted effort and unified understanding on how to strengthen Asean's position as a group to push forward climate action in the region. They urged participants to become better climate leaders who can deliver transformative, relevant, and effective programs and policies.

Call to Action

Andre de Wit, dean of Amsterdam Leadership Academy, encouraged participants to leverage the ACLP 3 opportunity to be the catalyst for professional growth and make it a stepping stone towards a more sustainable and equitable future not only for Asean but also for the world. Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, minister of Malaysia's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, acknowledged that the Asean region is one of the most vulnerable regions exposed to climate change crisis.

ACLP 3 Module 1 Deepening Understanding

The first module focused on deepening participants' understanding of the status of climate actions concerning the Paris Agreement, the integration of sustainable agriculture and food systems into enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions, the ACLP leadership model, leadership development plans, and an introduction to Theory-U and Systems Thinking.

Conclusion

ACLP 3 is a critical initiative that recognizes the importance of strengthening leadership in climate change dialogue at the international level. As we navigate the complexities of climate change, it is essential that countries vulnerable to its adverse effects work together towards a unified response. The program's blend of technical lectures, small group learning sessions, and online interactive activities provides participants with a comprehensive learning experience.

Lividity Level High

Note The livid tone refers to the urgency and gravity of the climate crisis, emphasizing the need for collective action and leadership in addressing this global challenge.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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