The Strong Nations for Asia Programme is a leadership development programme for senior public sector leaders, designed to strengthen governance capabilities, expand regional networks, and foster the exchange of practical insights across Asia. It brings together leaders committed to building stronger, more effective governments.


Through a combination of immersive in-person learning, virtual engagement, and peer exchange, participants explore governance challenges and innovations from across the region while building trusted professional relationships that continue beyond the programme. Recognising Asia's diverse governance contexts, the programme encourages participants to learn from one another's experiences and adapt ideas to their own national circumstances.

Why Should You Join?

The Strong Nations for Asia Programme offers senior public sector leaders a platform to:

Build Regional Networks

Connect and exchange perspectives with fellow public sector leaders across Asia, building a community of peers committed to strengthening governance.

Learn From Governance Practices Across Asia and Beyond

Gain insights into innovative approaches to public policy, service delivery, and institutional capability through facilitated discussions and learning journeys.

Apply Insights To Strengthen Governance Outcomes

Reflect on your own governance challenges and explore practical approaches that can be adapted to improve policies, institutions and public sector performance in your context.

Who Should Apply?

The programme is designed for mid- to senior-level public sector leaders from national and sub-national governments who should:
  • Be a citizen of, and currently serve in, the public sector of a country in Asia;
  • Have at least 10 years of public sector experience, including a track record of delivering governance reforms or public policy outcomes;
  • Be proficient in spoken and written English, the working language of the programme;
  • Hold a senior leadership or management role (e.g. Deputy Director or equivalent, depending on country context);
  • Be currently working on significant governance or public policy challenges and are well positioned to influence change within their organisation or government;
  • Be able to fully commit to all programme segments and activities; and have their organisation's support to participate in the programme

Programme Fees & Expenses

Confirmed participants will pay a programme fee of US$1,000, which covers part of the cost of organising and delivering the programme; the remainder is supported by the Chandler Academy of Governance.

Participants are also responsible for their return travel and accommodation in both Viet Nam and Singapore.

Participant Support

All participants will receive a daily allowance to cover basic expenses such as meals not included in the programme and local ground transportation.

Scholarships Available

CAG will offer a limited number of scholarships to participants who demonstrate a strong track record of leadership and a commitment to improving national governance.

Scholarships will be awarded in consultation with a panel of former government practitioners, experts and senior public sector leaders.  Scholarships will cover the US$1,000 programme registration fee, accommodation in both Ha Noi and Singapore, and return Economy Class airfare to Ha Noi and Singapore, as applicable. Participants already based in Ha Noi or Singapore will not receive accommodation or airfare support for the programme segment held in their city of residence.

All shortlisted applicants will be considered automatically; potential recipients may be asked to provide additional information to support the assessment.

Upcoming Inaugural Run

Stewardship in Government: Vision, Architecture, and Planning

Viet Nam
19-23 October 2026

Strengthening the
Leader Within

Virtual

9-13 November 2026

Making Policy Work
in Practice

Singapore

30 November - 4 December 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply if I am currently working in the private sector?

No. The programme is specifically designed for public sector leaders in Asia.

Will I get a certificate upon completion of the programme?

Participants who have completed the programme successfully will be awarded a Certificate of Accomplishment issued by the Chandler Academy of Governance.

Do I need certain academic qualifications to be considered for the programme?

No specific academic qualifications are required. We welcome applicants from diverse educational backgrounds who can contribute meaningfully to, and benefit from, the programme.

Contact Us

Please reach out to programmes@chandlergovernance.com if you have any further enquiries.