The African Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET) is now accepting applications for its Youth Policy Lab, an innovative initiative designed to give young Africans hands-on experience in policy development and governance.
Read more about Opportunities
Program Overview
This unique program combines the collaborative energy of a hackathon with the analytical depth of policy development.
The ACET Youth Policy Lab provides a simulation of real governance scenarios where participants aged 18-35 take on the roles of national policymakers to address critical development challenges facing the continent.
The initiative goes beyond traditional competitions by offering a comprehensive learning journey that includes mentorship support, collaborative teamwork, and continent-wide exposure through digital campaigns.
Participants develop essential competencies in policy analysis, innovative thinking, and leadership while ensuring youth perspectives are heard in decision-making forums where they are typically absent.
Program Structure
- Selected candidates will participate in the following process:
- Form collaborative teams of three members (a total of 6 teams).
- Tackle authentic policy challenges within an overarching annual theme.
- Work alongside experienced mentors for guidance and support.
- Engage in a month-long virtual collaboration to create comprehensive 3-page policy recommendations.
- Deliver live virtual presentations to expert evaluation panels.
Eligibility Criteria
- The program seeks African youth between 18 and 35 years who:
- Demonstrate a strong interest in governance, policy development, or development issues.
- Can dedicate 6-8 weeks to program participation.
- Are enthusiastic about cross-border, multi-sector collaboration.
- Possess proficiency in English or French.
- Are based in one of these countries: Ghana, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Malawi, or Niger.
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Program Advantages
- Gain firsthand policymaker experience.
- Enhance professional credentials and develop leadership capabilities.
- Join an expanding community of African youth leaders and industry professionals.
- Amplify your perspective within institutional, donor, and expert circles.
Recognition and Incentives
- First Place: $100 gift voucher per team member + Presidential meeting with ACET leadership + ACET internship opportunity + Research publication + Event spotlight.
- Second Place: $70 gift voucher per team member.
- Third Place: $50 gift voucher per team member.
- All Participants: Completion certificate + YES Ambassador designation.
Continuing Opportunities
Program graduates will:
- Join the YES Ambassadors Program.
- Participate in policy discussions, forums, and research publications.
- Gain visibility through ACET’s communication channels as part of the Pan-African leadership network.
Program Schedule
- Phase 1: Application Period – August 12 to September 12, 2025.
- Phase 2: Team Formation & Orientation – September 15 to September 30, 2025.
- Phase 3: Mentoring & Collaboration – October 15 to October 31, 2025.
- Phase 4: Presentation Event – November 5, 2025.
- Phase 5: Continued Engagement – November to December 2025.
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Participation Requirements
- Weekly commitment of 4-6 hours for team coordination, research, and mentoring sessions.
- Consistent communication and active engagement in all program components.
- Delivery of a comprehensive 3-page policy document including strategic priorities, financial planning, partnership opportunities, and risk assessment.
Application Closes: September 12, 2025
Click HEREÂ to apply.
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