Deadline: September 12, 2025
The ACET Youth Policy Lab 2025 is calling on young African innovators, leaders, and thinkers to step into the shoes of national decision-makers and develop real, evidence-based policy solutions for pressing governance challenges. Organised by the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), this programme combines a hackathon-style format with rigorous policy design, offering participants a transformative platform to influence Africa’s future.
If you are aged 18 to 35, passionate about policy analysis, innovation, and leadership, and eager to contribute to solutions that address Africa’s governance and development priorities, this is your opportunity to shine.
What is the ACET Youth Policy Lab 2025?
The ACET Youth Policy Lab 2025 is not your typical competition. It is an immersive and highly interactive programme that blends:
- Hackathon-style collaboration – Participants work in teams to address specific policy challenges.
- Policy design training – Learn to create practical, evidence-based policy recommendations.
- Role-play as decision-makers – Simulate the roles of national leaders to tackle real-world governance issues.
- Networking with experts – Engage with experienced policymakers, researchers, and leaders across the continent.
The aim is to amplify youth voices in policymaking, ensuring that young Africans are not just heard but also actively involved in shaping policy agendas.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to:
- Young Africans aged 18–35.
- Individuals with a passion for policy analysis, innovation, and leadership.
- Aspiring policymakers, researchers, activists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
You do not need to have prior policymaking experience, but you must be willing to learn, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully to the discussions.
Why Join the ACET Youth Policy Lab 2025?
Joining the ACET Youth Policy Lab 2025 means you will:
- Gain hands-on experience in policy creation and governance simulation.
- Strengthen your critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
- Work on practical solutions to real governance issues.
- Build networks with policymakers, experts, and fellow youth leaders.
- Enhance your career prospects in the public policy, governance, and development sectors.
This is a transformative learning opportunity that moves beyond theory into actionable policy recommendations.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is 12 September 2025. Early applications are encouraged to secure your place.
How to Apply
The application process is simple:
- Complete the online application form via the provided Microsoft Form link.
- Share your motivation, skills, and experiences relevant to policy innovation.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Programme Organiser
The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) is a leading pan-African think tank that focuses on supporting economic transformation across the continent through research, policy innovation, and capacity building.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | ACET Youth Policy Lab 2025 |
| Target Audience | Africans aged 18–35 |
| Focus Areas | Policy design, innovation, leadership |
| Format | Hackathon-style experience + policy design simulation |
| Deadline | 12 September 2025 |
| Application Link | Provided via Microsoft Form |
| Organiser | African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) |
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