Deadline: July 31, 2023.

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and the government of Japan are calling on young people to apply for an innovative learning programme “Youth Leader Fund for a World Without Nuclear Weapons”.

The new learning programme is aimed at equipping the leaders of the future with the knowledge, skills, and network to join global efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons – the most dangerous weapons on earth.

PROGRAM DETAILS

This comprehensive programme combines interactive online learning, an immersive study tour, participation in a youth-led conference and collaborative activities.

1. Interactive online component lasting 4 months:The programme kicks off with an engaging and interactive online component. Through self-paced eLearning modules participants will acquire a solid knowledge base on key disarmament and non-proliferation issues. In addition, they will have the opportunity to enhance their skills through skill-building workshops and live webinars, where they can interact in real-time with disarmament experts and fellow participants. The weekly time commitment for this component is approximately 4-6 hours.
2. In-person study tour to Hiroshima and Nagasaki:Upon successful completion of the online component, a select group of 50 participants will embark on a 6-day study tour to Japan. This experience will bring them to Hiroshima and Nagasaki, where they will engage with hibakusha, the survivors of the atomic bombings, and other. Additionally, they will participate actively in a youth-led conference, fostering meaningful discussions and exchange of ideas.
3. Collaborative creation of impactful activities:Beyond the conference, participants will play a vital role in creating impactful activities that can be shared with their respective communities. These activities will aim to raise awareness and inspire positive change towards a world without nuclear weapons.
4. Mentoring the next cohort:Upon programme completion, participants will remain involved through mentoring the next cohort of aspiring youth leaders. By sharing their insights and experiences, they will guide and inspire future participants.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

• At least 18 years old on 1 January 2023 
• Not older than 29 years old on 31 July 2023 (closing date of the call for application).
• Birth date between 1 August 1993 and 1 January 2005.
• The programme is open to national from all countries.
• The training courses will be conducted in English only. Proficiency in English is required to participate.
• To apply for the programme, it is not necessary to have any specific degree or qualification. The programme is open to individuals from diverse educational backgrounds who have an interest in contributing to a world free of nuclear weapons and a willingness to learn.
• The programme may be suitable for students, for those who have recently completed their education, and for those who are early or mid-career and are seeking to expand their knowledge and skills.

OFFICIAL LINK