UNAU Hosts Second Cohort of AUNYDP 2024

UNAU Hosts Second Cohort of AUNYDP 2024: A Gateway to Empowering East African Youth

In a significant stride towards youth empowerment, the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) proudly hosted the second cohort of the Africa United Nations Youth Delegate Program (AUNYDP) 2024. This initiative, born out of the National Educational Assessment (NEA) by CRIPS organization from Berlin, unfolded during a dynamic workshop held at the Nob View Hotel in Ntinda, Kampala, from March 4th to 8th.

AUNYDP 2024: Fostering Youth Leadership Across East Africa

The AUNYDP 2024, facilitated by UNAU, is a transformative initiative by CRIPS designed to empower 120 young leaders from Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. The program aims to equip these youth with the skills and knowledge essential for active engagement in shaping the future and development of their countries.

At the heart of the AUNYDP is the National Educational Assessment (NEA), an intensive and innovative training program spanning a number of on-venue training days. NEA focuses on significantly enhancing participants’ knowledge and skills in international governance, including UN and AU processes. Through interactive and context-related methods, the program solidifies advocacy, public speaking, conflict sensitivity, and critical thinking, fostering attitudes that lead to inclusive and democratic approaches to problem-solving.

UNAU’s Vision: Empowering the Youth as Multipliers

Through the AUNYDP and NEA, participants develop a profound sense of ownership and responsibility. UNAU envisions these empowered youth acting as multipliers in their respective countries, collectively forming a sense of “cohort” within the group.

Towards a Clear Vision: UN System Understanding and Future Missions

The training program places a strong emphasis on providing a comprehensive understanding of how the UN system operates internationally and on the ground. Participants identify areas for improvement, weaknesses, and potential for enhancement, strategically pinpointing entry points for effective lobbying.

At the culmination of the NEA, two UN Youth Delegates will be selected to represent the youth alongside 18 UN Youth Fellows in New York at the General Assembly. This elite group will collaboratively create a mission and vision for the future, enriched by discussions, practical experiences, and visits to UN bodies in New York.

UNAU envisions these empowered youth acting as multipliers in their respective countries, collectively forming a sense of “cohort” within the group

An integral aspect of the program is the commitment to transmitting newfound knowledge to a broader youth audience. Participants are encouraged to engage with schools and universities, unraveling the UN-Blackbox for wider understanding and awareness.

Conclusion: AUNYDP and NEA – Paving the Way for East African Youth Leadership

The collaboration between UNAU, AUNYDP, and NEA signifies a pivotal moment in empowering East African youth. As the second cohort embarks on this transformative journey, UNAU remains committed to nurturing a generation of dynamic leaders poised to shape a brighter future for their nations.