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Building on the momentum from January’s Fellowship Induction Day, the Masterclass Series at the Lab has provided Fellows with a dynamic, immersive learning experience. Designed to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world challenges, the series has brought together leading experts across education, sustainability, leadership, and digital innovation to provide the critical skills and knowledge needed for impactful careers. Each session has been linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing the Lab’s commitment to global impact.

Understanding Ethics, Purpose & Leadership 

Kicking off the series, Professor Alexander Betts led an engaging session on Ethics, Evidence, and Engagement, challenging Fellows to explore the intersection between social science and global impact. This was followed by an insightful discussion on 'The Global Food System' with Professor Charles Godfray of Oxford Martin School, where Fellows examined the complex challenges of ensuring global food security while addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity. This was directly linked to SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 15: Life on Land.

Bringing research into practice, Amy Booth our 2023 Lab Fellow & UN Tourism ESG Project Co-ordinator presented a case study on the development of the 'UN Tourism ESG Framework for Tourism Businesses', sharing insights into how Fellows’ work has shaped sustainability reporting in the tourism sector. She provided real-world perspectives on corporate accountability, responsible business practices, and how ESG frameworks guide decision-making.

Following these foundational sessions, Fellows explored purpose in leadership, where Dr Edward Brooks introduced key concepts from Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, highlighting how personal values shape ethical leadership and decision-making.

Expanding on this theme, Dr Mark Henstridge, CEO of Oxford Policy Management and Co-Director of the Research on Improving Systems of Education (RISE) Programme, led a session on Education and Social Mobility in alignment with SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Meanwhile, Professor Proochista Ariana explored character and leadership in tackling global health challenges, linking insights to SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing. 

Fellows also had the opportunity to explore leadership through sport with Oliver Cook, Senior Programme Manager at the Lab. He introduced the 'Young Sport Leaders Programme', a community initiative helping socio-economically disadvantaged children develop leadership skills through sport at the University of Oxford. His session explored the programme’s impact, lessons learned, and potential for future expansion, providing Fellows with a real-world example of leadership development through community engagement.

Sustainability, Ethical Decision-Making & Innovation

With sustainability at the heart of the Lab’s mission, Fellows explored low-carbon energy transitions, urban mobility, and judgment in decision-making, each linked to key SDGs.

The series also tackled research methodologies and data-driven policy solutions, with Professor Alexander Betts demonstrating how social science research shapes global decision-making and helps design evidence-based interventions. 

Insights from 2024 Lab Fellows: Research into Action

Throughout the series, 2024 Lab Fellows have returned to showcase the real-world impact of their research, offering valuable insights into how Lab projects drive change:

Final Session: SDG Impact in Action

The Masterclass Series concluded with a high-impact panel discussion, featuring Dr Edward Brooks, Professor Alexander Betts, Dr Anne Makena (Co-Director of Africa Oxford Initiative - AfOx), and Paul Humpherson (Director of Tap Social Movement). Together, they explored strategies for achieving real-world SDG impact, drawing on experiences from policy, academia, and business. The session provided Fellows with a big-picture perspective on how cross-sector partnerships, ethical leadership, and sustainable business practices can shape a more equitable and environmentally responsible future.

With the Masterclass Series complete, Fellows have gained invaluable insights, industry connections, and practical skills to support their upcoming research placements. Alongside these sessions, they have been engaging in project exploration sessions and connecting with our partners. These experiences will shape their impact journeys for the months ahead.

With expert guidance, hands-on learning, and exposure to industry leaders and policymakers, the Masterclass Series has equipped the next generation of changemakers with the tools and networks to drive lasting, positive impact.

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