Deadline: March 26, 2026
Young leaders across the world are invited to apply for the UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026, an international capacity-building programme designed to empower youth with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to promote peace, sustainability, and global citizenship.
The workshop is organised by the Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU) and the UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) in collaboration with the Global Citizenship Education Youth Network under UNESCO.
Through this initiative, emerging youth leaders will deepen their understanding of Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) while gaining practical tools to lead initiatives that address global challenges such as inequality, conflict, climate change, and social fragmentation.
Since its inception in 2015, the programme has built a vibrant global network of young changemakers committed to advancing peace and sustainable development in their communities. The UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026 continues this mission by equipping a new cohort of youth leaders with the capabilities required to drive meaningful social impact.
About the UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026
The UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026 is an international learning platform aimed at strengthening the leadership capacity of youth working in areas related to global citizenship, education, and community development.
The workshop focuses on building a deeper understanding of Global Citizenship Education, a concept that encourages individuals to view themselves as members of a global community with shared responsibilities. GCED promotes values such as empathy, respect for diversity, human rights, and active civic engagement.
Participants will also explore Social-Emotional Learning, an educational approach that helps individuals develop skills such as emotional intelligence, resilience, collaboration, and responsible decision-making. These competencies are essential for addressing complex global issues and fostering peaceful societies.
Through a combination of training sessions, collaborative learning activities, and peer exchange, the workshop provides participants with the opportunity to learn from global experts while sharing their own experiences and perspectives.
The programme also encourages youth to develop innovative solutions and community initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and social transformation.
Programme Objectives
The workshop aims to achieve several key objectives that align with global education and youth empowerment priorities.
Strengthening Youth Leadership
Participants will enhance their leadership skills and gain the confidence required to lead community initiatives and advocate for social change.
Promoting Global Citizenship Education
The programme seeks to deepen participants’ understanding of GCED and encourage them to integrate global citizenship principles into their work and community engagement.
Encouraging Social-Emotional Learning
Youth leaders will explore the role of emotional intelligence and empathy in promoting peaceful dialogue and inclusive communities.
Building a Global Network of Changemakers
The workshop provides a platform for youth from diverse backgrounds to connect, collaborate, and build long-lasting partnerships that extend beyond the programme.
Programme Structure and Learning Activities
The workshop includes a wide range of engaging learning activities designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Participants will take part in:
Orientation Sessions
The programme begins with introductory sessions that familiarise participants with the objectives of the workshop, the principles of GCED, and the expected outcomes of the programme.
Interactive Learning Modules
Youth leaders will engage in discussions and activities that explore key global challenges, including peacebuilding, cultural diversity, sustainable development, and social inclusion.
Collaborative Workshops
Participants will work in groups to analyse global issues and develop innovative approaches to addressing them at the local level.
Expert-Led Sessions
Renowned educators, researchers, and practitioners will lead interactive sessions on topics related to global citizenship education and youth leadership.
Networking Opportunities
The workshop provides a valuable opportunity for participants to connect with like-minded youth leaders from different regions of the world.
Youth-Led Action Development
Participants will be encouraged to develop ideas for initiatives that promote GCED and contribute to sustainable development in their communities.
Benefits of the Programme
Participating in the UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026 offers numerous benefits for young leaders seeking to expand their impact and global engagement.
Access to High-Quality Training
Participants will receive intensive training delivered by global experts in the fields of education, youth development, and peacebuilding.
International Networking Opportunities
The workshop creates a global platform where youth leaders can build relationships, exchange ideas, and collaborate on future initiatives.
Membership in a Global Youth Network
Participants will gain access to the international GCED youth community, enabling them to stay connected with fellow changemakers and continue learning beyond the programme.
Mentorship and Project Opportunities
Outstanding participants may have the opportunity to receive mentorship and potential support for youth-led initiatives that promote global citizenship education.
No Participation Fee
There is no participation fee required to attend the workshop, making it accessible to youth leaders from diverse backgrounds.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants interested in joining the programme must meet specific eligibility requirements.
To be eligible, applicants should:
- Be young leaders from Official Development Assistance (ODA) recipient countries.
- Be actively involved in activities related to Global Citizenship Education, youth development, or community engagement.
- Have at least two years of experience in youth-related initiatives or social impact work.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting peace, sustainability, and global citizenship values.
- Be able to communicate effectively in English, as the workshop will be conducted in English.
Applicants should also demonstrate leadership potential, a willingness to collaborate with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds, and a passion for addressing global challenges.
Application Requirements
Candidates applying for the programme are required to complete specific steps before submitting their application.
Completion of the GCED Online Course
Applicants must first complete the “GCED for Youth” e-learning course available on the GCED Online Campus.
This course provides an introduction to the principles and practices of global citizenship education and serves as a foundational learning experience for workshop participants.
Certificate Submission
Upon completing the course, applicants must download the certificate of completion and include it as part of their application materials.
Online Application Form
Applicants must fill out and submit the official online application form before the specified deadline.
The application process typically requires candidates to provide information about their background, leadership experience, and motivation for participating in the programme.
Why Global Citizenship Education Matters
Global Citizenship Education plays a crucial role in preparing young people to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
Through GCED, individuals develop the knowledge, skills, and values needed to:
- Promote peace and intercultural understanding
- Advocate for human rights and social justice
- Address global challenges such as climate change and inequality
- Foster inclusive and resilient communities
By empowering youth with these competencies, programmes like the UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026 contribute to building a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future.
Young people who participate in such initiatives often go on to lead impactful projects, influence policy discussions, and mobilise communities around critical social and environmental issues.
Who Should Apply?
The workshop is particularly suitable for:
- Youth activists and community organisers
- Students and young professionals working in education or development
- Members of youth-led organisations or networks
- Individuals passionate about peacebuilding and intercultural dialogue
- Young leaders committed to promoting global citizenship values
Applicants with innovative ideas for youth-led initiatives and a strong interest in global issues are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline
Interested applicants should ensure they complete all application requirements and submit their forms before the official deadline announced by the organisers.
Early preparation is strongly recommended, particularly for completing the required GCED online course and obtaining the completion certificate.
Final Thoughts
The UNESCO-MGIEP-APCEIU 12th Youth Leadership Workshop on GCED 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for young leaders to develop the knowledge, skills, and global connections necessary to drive meaningful change.
By participating in this programme, youth will not only strengthen their leadership capabilities but also become part of a global movement dedicated to building a more peaceful and sustainable world.
For aspiring changemakers who are passionate about education, youth empowerment, and global cooperation, this workshop represents a valuable opportunity to expand their impact and contribute to positive transformation in their communities.
Application Links
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