UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme 2025

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) has opened applications for the 2025 edition of the Global Youth Scholars Development Programme. This initiative invites motivated young people aged 18–24 worldwide to explore their role as evaluators of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Participants will be equipped with the skills, mentorship, and international exposure required to assess sustainability efforts in their communities and connect local realities to global development goals.

Programme Overview

1. Monthly Online Training (June – December 2025)
Engage in expert-led virtual sessions on SDG evaluation, citizen-led monitoring, and digital tools, delivered by UN specialists and sustainability professionals.

2. Community-Based SDG Evaluations (July – December 2025)
Apply your knowledge through hands-on evaluation projects in your own community, measuring real-world progress toward the SDGs.

3. International Study Visits (July, August, October & November 2025)
Join optional in-person visits to global cities like Geneva, Tokyo, Osaka, and Singapore. These include institutional tours, high-level events, and meetings with global leaders.
Note: Travel costs may apply and vary based on destination and individual circumstances.

4. Evaluation Review & Recognition (December 2025 – February 2026)
Submit your final evaluation report for review by a UNITAR committee. The top participants will be invited to present their work in Geneva in February 2026, connecting directly with global policymakers and experts.

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Who Can Apply?

UNITAR is looking for passionate and driven youth who:

• Are aged 18 to 24
• Have a keen interest in sustainability, policy, or global development
• Show leadership potential or have experience in community engagement
• Possesses strong English communication skills
• Have access to a device and the internet for virtual learning
• Are committed to completing the programme and submitting a final report

Programme Benefits

• Certificate of Completion from UNITAR for all participants who complete the programme
• No participation fee – the programme is fully funded (travel expenses for study visits are the participant’s responsibility)
• Language of instruction: English
• Rolling admissions – early applications encouraged. Final deadline: 31 October 2025
• Global Showcase in Geneva: Top scholars will be invited to present their findings in February 2026

How to Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early before the final deadline.

Visit the official UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme page for more details and to apply.