The UNESCO Youth Platform is a global initiative to elevate young people's voices, ideas and actions as they advocate for a more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable world. As a high school student, you have the unique opportunity to participate and collaborate with like-minded peers from around the world and make tangible contributions on issues that matter most to your generation. Here’s how to become engaged in this exciting global community and make a meaningful contribution to UNESCO’s mission.
1. Understand the Role of Youth at UNESCO
UNESCO considers young people vital actors, leaders and partners for social change and sustainable development - and encourages their involvement in the design, implementation and evaluation of programs across all its sectors, including education, science, culture, and communication. As high school students, you could be involved in combating inequality and promoting peace, providing solving global issues such as climate action and digital literacy. The youth engagement framework of UNESCO is based on the concept of "with, by and for youth" which ensures that your voice will be valued and heard in international decision-making.
2. Join the UNESCO Global Youth Community
The UNESCO Global Youth Community (GYC) is an inclusive, youth-led platform that connects change-makers of all sorts across the globe. As a member you will collaborate on projects, share across and learn, and take part in intergenerational learning processes. The GYC comes out of the UNESCO Youth Forum and prioritizes collaboration amongst youth, co-designing together, and increasing the visibility of youth action. High school students can get involved in discussions, join campaigns and learn from youth who are leading some really innovative projects in their own countries.
3. Apply for the SDG4 Youth & Student Network
Is education and advocacy your passion? Consider applying to the SDG4 Youth & Student Network! This is a global community coordinated through UNESCO that develops leaders who advocate for educational policy and promote inclusive, quality education for everyone. High school students who are 16 years of age or older and are engaged with non-profit, youth-led, education-focused organizations can be eligible to apply. Members will participate in workshops, conferences, and collaborative initiatives, with some selected to represent youth voices in high level policy discussions. The next cohort will be from January 2026 to December 2027 where applications are received with a general due date of July from the previous year.
4. Participate in Youth-Led Initiatives and Networks
UNESCO supports thousands of youth-centred initiatives around the world, providing support, training and platforms for young people to launch their own initiatives. As a high school, you get an opportunity to start or join local and global campaigns that can tackle local and global issues within topics such as environmental sustainability, cultural heritage, or digital innovation. In addition, these initiatives often lead to opportunities for leadership development, cross cultural exchange, and collaboration with experts and policymakers.
5. Engage in Dialogue and Capacity-Building
UNESCO provides workshops, webinars, and forums that allow youth to engage in meaningful dialogue with policymakers, educators, and others. High school students from UNESCO's Model and World Youth Conferences were able to participate in these activities and build skills, share perspectives, and contribute to policy decisions on issues affecting young people all over the world - which is no small feat! These capacity building activities will help you develop skills such as leadership, advocacy, and project management, and expand your global network.
6. Contribute to Knowledge Production and Advocacy
UNESCO’s youth networks across the organization provide opportunities for young people to engage in the research process, submit policy briefs, and develop educational materials. High school students can participate in thematic working groups, assist in organizing awareness campaigns, and develop creative actions to advocate for change. By sharing your experiences, thoughts, and ideas, you are working to ensure the views and perspectives of youth are included in global conversations about education, sustainability, and social justice.
7. How to Get Started
If you're interested in joining the UNESCO Youth Platform or its networks, first visit the official UNESCO Youth page and explore the opportunities available. Be sure to review program eligibility criteria, for example with SDG4 Youth & Student Network! and start thinking about highlighting your involvement with youth organizations or community projects. Apply for the position; it typically comes with a statement of interest, information about your work or advocacy to date, and your commitment to run activities for a definite term. Membership is voluntary and unpaid, but offers substantial mentoring, development experiences, and opportunities to connect with young leaders from around the world who are also exceptionally passionate about youth leadership!
By engaging to be part of the UNESCO Youth Platform, high school students can be part of the global movement working for positive change (while developing skills, a network and creating a better future for all).
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