WHAT IS SAGE?

The Sustainability Ambassadors Global Exchange (SAGE) program builds a new generation of sustainability leaders who develop essential skills in 
active listening, research management, data analysis, systems thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration through a real-world sustainability boot camp. The SAGE program is a unique initiative that combines classroom knowledge with on-field, community engagement to train participants to tackle real-world sustainability issues while fostering empathy and understanding. The diverse perspectives and networking opportunities of this lifelong program continue to offer participants vital tools for career success and professional growth. The SAGE program reinforces a commitment to sustainable development and collective impact across various sectors.  It builds relationships that will last a lifetime, creating a network of passionate individuals committed to making a difference.

The echo network is a community of over 2500 individuals from 46 countries who have dedicated their lives to building a more sustainable planet.  Each of these members is an expert in their own field - be it a champion farmer, an intrepid filmmaker, or a CEO. Over the past 5 years, over 650 individuals have helped develop the projects and concepts you will be researching during the Sustainability Ambassadors Global Exchange  (SAGE) Senior Ambassadors Program, which was initiated in 2023.

Read how our ambassadors have benefited

APPLICANTS MUST BE

• Currently enrolled Postgraduates studying at universities in India and internationally, who are interested in the echo network's challenges. 

• Able to attend online lectures in June 2026 (2 hours each; 8-10 lectures).

• Willing to complete remote collaborative research with network experts between June-August at approximately 10-15 hours per week effort.

• Able to attend 2 weeks in person training and network summit in Bengaluru (15 June - 28 June 2026)

• Willing to adhere to all the deadlines of project submissions.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Program Support (including food, accommodation, training, and summit attendance) is already provided by the SAGE program to all Senior Ambassadors (totalling approx. ₹80,000 or €900 per student).

• Travel, insurance, and visa fees will be borne by students. Travel scholarships may be offered based on need.

• After submission of the interest form, short-listed applicants will be asked to provide: research proposal, motivation letter, letter of recommendation, Copy of latest transcript, CV or other related material to support the application.

• Certificates will be provided to all ambassadors who complete the program, as well as opportunities for continued engagement.

HYBRID LEARNING 

Online Introductory Lectures (June 2026):
The program will commence with two weeks of online lectures, consisting of eight sessions of two hours each. These lectures will cover fundamental sustainability topics, providing a solid foundation for the subsequent in-person training.

In-Person Training in Bengaluru (15 June - 28 June 2025):
Participants will spend two weeks in Bengaluru for immersive training, which will include lectures, field trips, stakeholder interactions, community engagements, and networking events. This component will be co-led by the Nordic Centre in India, with the echo network facilitating training development.

Remote Research (July-August 2025):
Following the in-person training, participants will undertake eight weeks of remote research, dedicating approximately 10 hours per week. This research will enable participants to apply their learning in real-world contexts and further develop their projects in collaboration with consortia.

SAGE SHOWCASE 

Participants present their research at the SAGE Showcase. Scheduled towards the end of the program but well ahead of their final submission, this showcase will allow Senior Ambassadors to receive constructive feedback from experts and peers. This feedback will enable them to refine their projects before the final submission. 

EXPERT NETWORKING

Throughout the program, participants will engage with experts from the echo network and partner organisations. These interactions will occur during lectures, in-person training, field visits, and network summits, enriching participants' understanding of sustainability challenges.

HUMAN LIBRARY

Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in a virtual Human Library program, featuring experts who will share their personal experiences and insights from the field. This format encourages open dialogue and deep exploration of sustainability challenges.

1. Ensure you are a postgraduate currently pursuing or have completed your Master’s or early PhD studies, both in India and internationally.

2. Complete the online interest form below by January 18, 2026. 

3. After the announcement of shortlisted candidates on January 30, 2026, you will be requested to submit a full application. This will include:

   • An updated CV

   • A motivation letter (1-2 pages) detailing what truly motivates and inspires you, as well as your inner journey toward the program

   • A research proposal focusing on one of our project interests: circularity, surveillance, waste management, forum, feedstock, biopackaging, nutrition, production, stewardship, digitalization, or valuation

   • Letter of Recommendation

   • Copy of latest transcript

   • Any additional documentation showcasing relevant research or projects

4. International Students who are shortlisted will be asked to provide passport information

5. Final applications are due by February 28, 2026.

For more information feel free to write to shaheena@echonetwork.in