Applications are now open for the Global Youth Climate Training Programme 2025.
Closing date is 21 March 2025.
The Global Youth Climate Training Programme (GYCT) is an initiative designed to empower young climate leaders aged 16 to 35.
Launched in May 2023, the GYCT is a collaboration between the Global Youth Coalition (GYC), a coalition of climate youth changemakers, and esteemed researchers at the University of Oxford, specifically from the Oxford Net Zero and the Oxford Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment.
This program aims to provide young activists with the necessary skills and insights to effectively participate in international climate negotiations, particularly within the context of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
With the generous support of the ClimateWorks Foundation, the GYCT offers a rich, fully online curriculum that includes expert-led sessions, interactive learning, and opportunities for practical application in real-world scenarios, culminating in preparation for the crucial UN climate conferences.
Why You Should Apply
By participating in the GYCT, you will:
- ✅ Gain insights from expert speakers on international climate policy and the geopolitical landscape that influences it.
- ✅ Engage in interactive peer-learning sessions that enhance your advocacy skills.
- ✅ Prepare for key climate events, including the June UNFCCC conference in Bonn and a pre-COP30 session.
- ✅ Join a community of passionate young leaders who share your commitment to climate action, fostering collaboration and mutual support.
This program offers an invaluable opportunity to elevate your understanding of global climate negotiations, and how you can effectively advocate for meaningful change.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
- Skill Development: Enhance your understanding of climate policy and advocacy techniques that empower you to make a significant impact.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other youth activists and leaders in the climate space, fostering long-lasting collaborations.
- Access to Resources: You will receive preparatory materials and access to a wealth of information that will aid your ongoing climate advocacy.
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in assignments that allow you to apply what you’ve learned in practice, better preparing you for future climate negotiations.
Expectations from Participants
Participants are expected to:
- Attend all ten sessions, each lasting 1.5 hours.
- Actively engage in discussions, share insights, and collaborate with peers.
- Complete assignments that support skill-building and application of concepts learned.
- Offer constructive feedback and contribute to an inclusive learning environment.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Reflect on Your Experience: Clearly articulate your involvement in climate activism, highlighting specific projects or initiatives where you’ve made an impact.
- Demonstrate Knowledge of the UNFCCC: Show familiarity with the UNFCCC process and recent COP outcomes. This will illustrate your commitment and preparation for engagement in discussions.
- Be Authentic: Use your own voice when answering questions. Avoid relying heavily on AI or automated responses; we want to hear your individual motivations and experiences.
- Showcase Your Passion: Clearly express your enthusiasm for climate action and commitment to advocating for change in your community and beyond.
- Diversity Matters: If you come from a climate-vulnerable region or represent a marginalized group, emphasize this in your application as we prioritize applicants from diverse backgrounds.
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: February 27
- Applications Close: March 21
- Outcome Notification: April 21
- Programme Start Date: May 21
- Programme End Date: July 16
- Pre-COP30 Reunion Session: November 4
The full session calendar, and further information about the programme can be found on our webpage, in our brochure (Word version for text-to-voice reading here).
For any questions or technical difficulties, please reach out to us at: youthclimatetraining@gmail.com.
Take this opportunity to amplify your voice in the climate movement and make a difference on a global scale. The world needs passionate young advocates like you! 🌱
