UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme 2025
- Omran Aburayya
- May 1
- 2 min read
If you're a young changemaker passionate about sustainability and eager to make a tangible impact in your community, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) invites you to apply for the 2025 Global Youth Scholars Development Programme. This prestigious, fully-funded initiative empowers youth aged 18–24 worldwide to evaluate the real-world progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a blend of online learning, field research, and international networking. Applications are open on a rolling basis until October 31, 2025.
🎓 Programme Summary
Location: Global (Online & Optional In-Person Visits in Geneva)
Organized By: United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Target Group: Youth aged 18–24 worldwide
Fields of Focus: SDG evaluation, sustainability, community development, digital tools
Coverage: Free participation; optional study visits may incur travel costs
Programme Duration:
2025 – February 2026
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
Start Date: April 2025
Eligibility: Open to youth aged 18–24 globally
📚 Programme Overview
The UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme is structured into four key phases:
1. Monthly Online Training (June–December 2025)
Participants engage in monthly virtual modules covering:
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
2. Field-Based SDG Evaluations (July–December 2025)
Scholars conduct local case studies to assess the progress of SDGs within their communities, applying the tools and methodologies learned during the online sessions.
3. Optional Global Study Visits (July, August, October, and November 2025)
Participants have the opportunity to attend in-person study visits to cities such as Geneva, Tokyo, Osaka, and Singapore. These visits include:
Institutional tours
Participation in global events
Meetings with global leaders
Note: Travel fees may apply depending on destination and individual circumstances.
4. Evaluation Review & Recognition (December 2025–February 2026)
Final reports are reviewed by the UNITAR committee. Top participants will be invited to Geneva in February 2026 to present their findings and network with global leaders.
🎁 Programme Benefits
Certificate of Completion from UNITAR
Mentorship from UN experts and sustainability professionals
Access to a global network of peers and leaders
Opportunity to present findings at UNITAR Headquarters in Geneva
Enhanced skills in SDG evaluation and community engagement
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Be aged 18–24 at the time of application
Demonstrate a passion for sustainability, policy, or global development
Show leadership potential or active community engagement
Have good communication skills in English
Have access to a device and the internet for online learning
Commit to completing the programme and submitting a final evaluation report
📝 Application Procedure and
Visit the UNITAR Global Youth Scholars Development Programme registration page to access the application form.
Prepare a motivation statement outlining your interest in SDGs and youth leadership.
Provide proof of age and identification.
Submit your application before the final deadline on October 31, 2025.
ℹ️ Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is encouraged.
🔗 OFFICIAL LINK
