Applications are now open for the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program (GCYLP) 2026, a fully funded global leadership opportunity for young innovators and digital changemakers. The program invites passionate youth from around the world to develop and implement impactful digital projects that support community development.
The initiative is organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with Huawei. Selected fellows will travel to **Geneva, Switzerland, to participate in an in-person leadership and development week in July 2026.
In addition to the one-week global event, participants will receive a full year of mentorship, training, and funding to help them implement digital innovation projects in their local communities. The program will select 30 young leaders who demonstrate strong ideas and commitment to digital development.
Below are the key details about the program.
Program Overview
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Location: Geneva
- Organizer: International Telecommunication Union (in partnership with Huawei)
- Duration: One week in Geneva + 1 year of virtual mentorship and training
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Financial Benefits
The ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program 2026 provides full support to selected fellows. Benefits include:
1. Global Development Week in Geneva
Participants will attend a one-week in-person leadership event in Geneva. Travel, accommodation, and other related costs will be covered by the program.
2. Virtual Training and Mentorship
Fellows will receive year-long mentorship and specialized training sessions provided by experts from ITU and Huawei.
3. Project Funding
Each fellow will receive financial support to implement their digital development project:
- Initial Grant: USD $5,000 for all selected fellows
- Additional Grant: Up to USD $5,000 for high-impact projects
Participants will implement digital solutions designed to address challenges in their communities.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants from all countries are eligible.
- Age requirement: 18 to 28 years old.
- Applicants should have a strong interest in digital innovation and community development.
- Candidates must propose or already be working on a digital development project.
- Educational background in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) is preferred.
- Applicants must have good English communication skills.
Required Documents
Applicants may need to provide the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Valid passport
- Laptop (required for project participation)
- Detailed description of the digital project idea
- Educational transcript or graduation certificate
- Any other relevant supporting documents
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the official application portal. During the application process, applicants will be required to:
- Provide personal and contact details
- Share their academic background
- Submit a short biography explaining their digital experience and motivation
- Present a new or existing digital development project idea
- Select the ITU regional area where the project will be implemented
After completing the application form and agreeing to the program terms, candidates can submit their application for review.
Selected fellows will join a global network of young innovators working to use digital technologies to create positive social impact.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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