Call for Applications: UNITAR’s Global Youth Scholars Development Programme 2025/2026 for Young People Worldwide
Location: Global | Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
The UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme is inviting youth aged 18 to 24 from around the world to apply for this flagship initiative designed to empower the next generation of leaders in evaluating the impact of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This free, year-long programme offers an exceptional opportunity for youth to engage in a blend of online learning, community-based research, international networking, and the chance to present findings to UN officials in Geneva, Switzerland. Participants will gain valuable tools, mentorship, and exposure to global SDG evaluation, connecting local experiences to global sustainability goals.
Programme Overview
The UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge to assess the real-world impact of sustainability efforts within their own communities.
The programme runs from April 2025 to February 2026, featuring monthly online courses, optional study visits to cities like Geneva, Tokyo, Osaka, and Singapore, and a final showcase in Geneva for top participants.
Programme Phases
- Monthly Online Training (June–December 2025)
- Engage in virtual modules covering SDG evaluation methods, citizen-led monitoring, and digital tools, taught by UN experts and sustainability professionals.
- Field-Based SDG Evaluations (July–December 2025)
- Conduct local case studies to assess the progress of SDGs within participants’ communities, applying the tools learned in the online training.
- Study Visits (July, August, October, and November 2025)
- Optional in-person study visits to Geneva, Tokyo, Osaka, Singapore, and other global cities. Participants will tour institutions, attend global events, and meet with influential leaders.
- Travel fees may apply depending on the destination and individual circumstances.
- Evaluation Review & Recognition (December 2025–February 2026)
- Final reports will be reviewed by UNITAR’s committee. Outstanding participants will be invited to Geneva in February 2026 to present their findings and network with global leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
The programme seeks youth who:
- Are 18–24 years old.
- Have a passion for sustainability, policy, or global development.
- Demonstrate leadership potential or active community engagement.
- Possess strong communication skills in English.
- Have access to a device and the internet for online learning.
- Are committed to completing the programme and submitting a final evaluation report.
Learning Topics
Participants will explore a wide range of topics, including:
- SDG evaluation principles and methodologies.
- Community-based data collection and citizen monitoring.
- Digital tools for SDG tracking (AI, big data, blockchain).
- Advocacy and accountability mechanisms.
- Leadership and social impact.
- Innovation in sustainability.
Additional Programme Information
- Certification: All participants who complete the programme will receive a Certificate of Completion from UNITAR.
- Programme Fee: The programme is free of charge. Participants are responsible for their travel expenses for optional study visits.
- Language: The programme will be conducted in English.
- Application Process: Applications are open on a rolling basis, with the final deadline for applications being October 31, 2025.
- Showcase: Top participants will be invited to Geneva in February 2026 to present their evaluation findings and network with global leaders.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the Global Youth Leadership Programme website and submit your application. For more details on the programme and to register, visit the Global Youth Scholars Development Programme registration page.
About UNITAR
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is the UN’s dedicated training arm. In 2024, UNITAR trained over 550,000 learners globally, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to take action for a better future.
With offices in Geneva, Hiroshima, New York, and Bonn, and a network of partners around the world, UNITAR supports global sustainable development through education and capacity-building initiatives. Learn more about UNITAR and its initiatives at www.unitar.org.
Disclaimer: The UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme is not a recruitment program for employment. All inquiries should be directed to UNITAR’s official channels for further clarification.
