African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) Youth Policy Lab 2025 – Empowering Young Africans in Policymaking

Illustrative Image: African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) Youth Policy Lab 2025 – Empowering Young Africans in Policymaking
Image Source & Credit: ACET
Ownership and Usage Policy

The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) is inviting applications for the 2025 Youth Policy Lab, an innovative initiative that empowers young Africans to engage meaningfully in policymaking. This program provides a unique opportunity for youth to step into the shoes of national decision-makers, simulating real-world governance challenges while crafting evidence-based solutions to pressing development issues across the continent.

Blending the creativity and energy of a hackathon with the rigor and structure of policy design, the ACET Youth Policy Lab is not just a competition—it is a transformative learning platform. Participants, aged 18 to 35, will gain hands-on experience in policy analysis, collaborative problem-solving, and leadership while their ideas and voices are amplified across Africa’s development landscape.

What the Program Offers

The ACET Youth Policy Lab goes beyond brainstorming ideas. It immerses young participants in a structured policy simulation process that mirrors the complexities of real governance.

If selected, participants will:

• Be organized into six teams of three members each.

• Receive a real-world policy scenario tied to an annual development theme.

• Work under the guidance of an experienced mentor to design practical and innovative solutions.

• Dedicate one month of virtual teamwork to produce a concise 3-page policy proposal.

• Pitch their proposals live before a panel of expert judges, gaining visibility and feedback from development professionals.

Who Can Apply

The opportunity is open to African youth aged 18–35 who:

• Are passionate about governance, policy, or development.

• Can commit 6–8 weeks of active participation.

• Are eager to collaborate with peers across countries and sectors.

• Are fluent in English or French.

• Currently reside in Ghana, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Malawi, or Niger.

Benefits and Rewards

By participating in the ACET Youth Policy Lab, young people not only sharpen their skills but also gain recognition and access to new opportunities.

Key Benefits

• First-hand experience of what it means to be a policymaker.

• Strengthening of leadership, teamwork, and analytical skills.

• Networking with a pan-African community of youth leaders, mentors, and experts.

• Visibility on ACET’s platforms and connections with donors and institutions.

Rewards and Recognition

• Winning Team: $100 gift voucher per participant + exclusive meeting with the ACET President + internship at ACET + paper publication + event features.

• 2nd Place Team: $70 gift voucher per participant.

• 3rd Place Team: $50 gift voucher per participant.

• All Finalists: Certificate of Participation + induction as a YES Ambassador.

Post-Lab Opportunities

The Policy Lab is only the beginning. After completion, participants will continue to benefit from ACET’s network and visibility. They will:

• Join the YES Ambassadors Program.

• Be invited to policy dialogues, roundtables, and publications.

• Feature on ACET’s platforms as part of a growing Pan-African network of changemakers.

Timeline

• Stage 1: Applications Open – August 12 to September 12, 2025

• Stage 2: Team Selection & Onboarding – September 15 to September 30, 2025

• Stage 3: Mentorship & Teamwork – October 15 to October 31, 2025

• Stage 4: Virtual Pitch Event – November 5, 2025

• Stage 5: Follow-Up Activities – November to December 2025

Commitment

Participants should be prepared to dedicate 4–6 hours per week for:

• Team meetings and collaboration.

• Drafting and refining policy proposals.

• Coaching and mentorship sessions.

• Final submission of a 3-page strategy paper, including policy priorities, budget frameworks, co-financing ideas, and risk mitigation strategies.

Why It Matters

The ACET Youth Policy Lab is more than a competition—it is a bridge between Africa’s future leaders and current policymaking structures. In a continent where youth make up the majority of the population but remain under-represented in decision-making, this initiative ensures that young voices are not only heard but also integrated into the policy frameworks shaping Africa’s development.

By simulating governance processes, young Africans can understand the complexity of leadership while practising innovative thinking, negotiation, and evidence-based decision-making. Ultimately, the program builds a pipeline of leaders who can drive inclusive and sustainable transformation across the continent.

🔗 For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of the ACET Youth Policy Lab