Global Youth Climate Training Programme 2025: Empowering the Next Generation of Climate Leaders

In an era where the climate crisis demands urgent and collective action, young people continue to emerge as powerful voices driving transformative change. The Global Youth Climate Training Programme (GYCT) 2025 is a unique opportunity designed to equip passionate youth with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to engage meaningfully in international climate policy. This free, virtual capacity development programme empowers participants aged 16-35 to sharpen their advocacy skills and amplify their impact on the global stage.

Launched in 2023, the programme has already garnered immense interest, with over 20,000 applications submitted since its inception. As young activists increasingly play a critical role in shaping climate policies, the need for comprehensive training to ensure their contributions are both strategic and impactful has never been greater. The GYCT serves as a bridge between youth activism and international climate negotiations, offering participants a deep understanding of the processes and key issues shaping global climate action.

The 2025 edition of the programme will run from May 21 to July 16, with a final reunion session on November 4 ahead of COP30. Over the course of nine weeks, participants will engage in expert-led sessions that explore critical aspects of international climate policy. Alongside the lectures, participants will take part in peer-learning workshops, interactive discussions, and practical assignments aimed at strengthening their advocacy skills. The programme’s unique approach blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, empowering participants to not only understand the system but also navigate it effectively.

One of the standout features of the GYCT is its emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Priority is given to applicants from regions most vulnerable to climate change, ensuring that the voices of those on the frontlines of the crisis are amplified. Participants are selected based on their demonstrated commitment to climate action, experience in community projects, and ability to advocate for change. This global cohort fosters a rich learning environment where young leaders from different backgrounds can connect, collaborate, and learn from one another.

A key component of the programme is the group assignment, where participants will work together to assess a corporation’s climate policies and develop targeted strategies for stakeholder engagement. This exercise not only builds essential research and project management skills but also offers a unique opportunity to influence corporate climate action.

Successful participants will be awarded a certificate of completion and become eligible to apply for a bursary of up to £3000 to attend COP30 in Brazil. This financial support aims to break down the barriers that often prevent young activists from participating in critical global events.

With sessions offered in five languages — English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, and Mandarin — the programme ensures accessibility for youth from diverse regions. Interactive peer-to-peer spaces, online community platforms, and recordings of each session further enhance the learning experience, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the content at their own pace.

By the end of the programme, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of international climate policy, develop practical advocacy tactics, and become part of a thriving network of youth changemakers. This initiative is more than just a training course — it is a stepping stone for young leaders to claim their space in climate negotiations and push for bold, transformative action.

If you are a young climate advocate eager to take your activism to the next level, this is your chance to join a global community working towards a more just and sustainable future. The application window is open from February 27 to March 21. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this empowering journey and contribute to shaping the future of climate action.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity