Deadline: 07-Jul-2026
The Youth Governance Policy Simulation Initiative supports young Africans aged 18 to 35 in developing practical policymaking, leadership, and governance skills. The programme uses simulated policy processes, mentorship, collaboration, and competitive policy design to help participants create solutions for key development challenges across Africa.
Participants can develop ideas in areas such as corruption, public procurement, transparency, healthcare, education, and environmental policy.
What Is the Youth Governance Policy Simulation Initiative?
The Youth Governance Policy Simulation Initiative is a youth-focused programme designed to strengthen young Africans’ participation in governance and policy development.
The initiative provides participants with a practical learning environment where they can:
- Explore public policy challenges
- Develop evidence-based solutions
- Practice policymaking skills
- Collaborate with other young leaders
- Present innovative ideas
The programme aims to increase youth involvement in decision-making processes.
Main Objectives of the Initiative
The programme aims to:
- Strengthen youth leadership in governance
- Build policy analysis skills
- Encourage practical problem-solving
- Promote transparent and inclusive policymaking
- Support youth-led development solutions
It creates opportunities for young people to contribute ideas to major social and economic challenges.
Key Focus Areas
Corruption and Public Procurement
Participants may develop policy ideas addressing:
- Corruption prevention
- Transparent procurement systems
- Accountability mechanisms
- Public sector integrity
The goal is to improve trust and efficiency in governance systems.
Public Spending and Transparency
Projects may focus on:
- Budget transparency
- Public resource management
- Government accountability
- Citizen participation in spending decisions
Environment and Sustainability
Participants can explore solutions related to:
- Environmental protection
- Climate challenges
- Sustainable development
- Green policy approaches
Healthcare
Policy ideas may address:
Education
Participants may develop solutions focused on:
- Education access
- Learning quality
- Skills development
- Youth opportunities
Programme Structure
The initiative follows a practical policy development process.
Policy Development Phase
Participants work on policy ideas by:
- Identifying challenges
- Researching solutions
- Designing recommendations
- Developing policy proposals
The process helps participants understand how real-world policies are created.
Mentorship and Collaboration
Participants receive support through:
- Expert guidance
- Peer collaboration
- Policy discussions
- Leadership development
Mentorship helps participants improve their ideas and strengthen their proposals.
Pitching Phase
Date:
4 November 2026
Participants present their policy ideas during a competitive pitching session.
The pitching stage allows participants to:
- Showcase solutions
- Receive feedback
- Demonstrate leadership skills
Recognition and Opportunities
Top-performing teams are selected and recognised for their contributions.
Selected participants may also gain access to the:
YES Ambassador Program
This provides connection to a wider regional youth network focused on:
- Leadership
- Innovation
- Collaboration
Who Is Eligible?
The programme is open to:
- Young Africans
- Citizens of African countries
- Individuals interested in governance and policymaking
Age Requirement
Applicants must be:
18 to 35 years old
Ideal Candidates
The programme is suitable for young people interested in:
- Public policy
- Governance
- Leadership
- Social innovation
- Development challenges
Participants do not need to already be policymakers but should demonstrate interest in creating solutions.
Skills Developed Through the Programme
Participants strengthen skills in:
Policy Analysis
Learning how to:
- Understand public challenges
- Evaluate solutions
- Develop recommendations
Problem Solving
Participants practice:
- Identifying root causes
- Designing practical responses
- Creating measurable solutions
Leadership
The initiative develops:
- Collaboration skills
- Communication abilities
- Strategic thinking
Public Presentation
Participants improve:
- Pitching skills
- Advocacy abilities
- Policy communication
How the Programme Works
Step 1: Identify a Challenge
Participants select a governance issue connected to priority areas.
Examples include:
- Transparency problems
- Education barriers
- Environmental challenges
Step 2: Develop a Policy Solution
Participants create proposals that include:
- Problem analysis
- Recommended actions
- Expected impact
Step 3: Refine Ideas Through Mentorship
Experts and peers support participants in improving their proposals.
Step 4: Present the Policy Idea
Participants pitch their solutions on 4 November 2026.
Step 5: Join the Youth Network
Selected participants may continue engagement through regional leadership opportunities.
Why This Initiative Matters
Young people represent a significant part of Africa’s population but are often underrepresented in formal policy spaces.
This initiative helps bridge that gap by enabling young Africans to:
- Participate in governance discussions
- Develop practical solutions
- Build leadership capacity
- Influence future policies
Youth involvement can contribute to more inclusive and responsive decision-making.
Common Application Mistakes and Tips
Choosing a Broad Topic
Large issues need focused solutions.
Tip: Select a specific challenge and explain the proposed change clearly.
Limited Practical Solutions
Ideas should be realistic.
Tip: Include clear steps for implementation.
Weak Problem Analysis
Strong policies require understanding the issue.
Tip: Explain causes, affected groups, and expected outcomes.
Ignoring Community Impact
Policies should benefit people.
Tip: Show how your idea improves lives or public systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for this initiative?
Young Africans aged 18 to 35 who are citizens of African countries can apply.
What topics can participants work on?
Participants can develop ideas related to corruption, procurement, transparency, environment, healthcare, and education.
Is previous policy experience required?
No. The programme is designed to build practical governance and policy skills.
What happens after the policy design phase?
Participants present their ideas during the pitching phase on 4 November 2026.
What opportunities are available after participation?
Top participants may receive recognition and possible entry into the YES Ambassador Program.
What skills will participants gain?
Participants develop policy analysis, leadership, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Is the programme only for government professionals?
No. It is open to young people interested in governance and development.
Conclusion
The Youth Governance Policy Simulation Initiative creates a platform for young Africans to develop practical solutions to governance challenges.
Through policy design, mentorship, and collaboration, the programme strengthens youth leadership and supports a future where young people play a greater role in shaping Africa’s development.
For more information, visit ACET.