TheBan Ki-moon Global Citizen Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for its 2025 cohort. This prestigious program is designed to empower young, driven leaders who are actively contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and who may not otherwise have access to transformative educational and networking opportunities. Through this scholarship, participants will gain access to specialized academic training, international forums, high-level networking, expert-led skills workshops, and a unique peer-to-peer mentoring experience.
This year, the Ban Ki-moon Centre will select 14 young African leaders who are passionate about advancing the SDGs. They will be joined by three students from the Management Center Innsbruck (MCI), creating a dynamic cohort of 17 changemakers. Together, they will embark on a journey to deepen their impact and expand their global networks.
A key component of the program is the SDG Micro-Project, which each scholar will design and implement in their local community between April and December 2025. These projects are tailored to address one or more of the SDGs, ensuring that the scholars’ work has a tangible, localized impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be a young African from any country on the continent, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation.
- Be between the ages of 20 and 35.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to the SDGs and the principles of global citizenship.
- Provide proof of English proficiency at a B2 level (based on European standards).
- Hold at least a Master’s degree (exceptions may be made for candidates who have successfully completed the first year of their Master’s program).
Program Benefits
Selected scholars will enjoy a range of opportunities, including:
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- Participation in the MCI Summer School on Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development.
- Specialized skills training sessions with leading organizations and experts.
- Peer-to-peer mentoring from alumni of the Ban Ki-moon Global Citizen Scholarship Program.
- Attendance at the RELX Inspiration Day 2025, a platform for connecting with global changemakers.
- A $500 seed grant to support the implementation of their SDG Micro-Project.
- Comprehensive project management training and guidance throughout the project lifecycle.
How to Apply
For more details about the program and to submit your application, visit the official webpage of the Ban Ki-moon Global Citizen Scholarship Program.
