Global MDP Challenge 2024: Impact Report
The Global Master of Development Practice (MDP) Association, hosted by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and the SDG Academy, launched its first-ever Global MDP Challenge — a groundbreaking initiative designed to mobilize the energy and expertise of MDP students worldwide to co-develop real-world solutions to pressing global challenges. Proposals were evaluated by a panel of development and academic experts from the World Bank, the Global Environment Facility, and leading universities.
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Over an intensive eight weeks in Fall 2024, students were placed into multinational teams and tasked with responding to a simulated Request for Proposals (RFP). Participants were challenged to design a viable, field-ready solution targeting one or two SDG goals across five key thematic areas — from climate resilience and inclusive economic development to gender equity and health systems.
The competition culminated in four finalist proposals addressing urgent issues: climate-resilient agriculture in Sierra Leone, water access in Botswana, landslide mitigation in India, and flood recovery in Malaysia. More than a theoretical exercise, the Challenge provided a high-impact experiential learning model, equipping participants to navigate ambiguity, collaborate across cultures, and produce implementable solutions that reflect the realities of global development practice. Several proposals are now being explored for real-world implementation.
Learn more about the Global MDP Challenge.