If you're a young climate activist eager to deepen your understanding of international climate policy and enhance your advocacy skills, the Global Youth Climate Training Programme (GYCT) 2025 is now accepting applications. This free, fully online programme is designed to empower individuals aged 16-35 with the knowledge and confidence needed to engage effectively in global climate discussions.
GYCT Programme Summary
Location: Fully Virtual
Host Institutions: Global Youth Coalition (GYC) and researchers from the University of Oxford (Oxford Net Zero, Oxford Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment)
Study Level: Capacity development programme
Target Group: Youth aged 16-35 with a demonstrated interest in climate activism
Fields of Focus: International climate policy within a changing global geopolitical landscape
Coverage: Fully funded (free participation)
Award Duration: May 21 – July 16, 2025, with an additional pre-COP30 session on November 4, 2025
Application Deadline: March 21, 2025
Eligible To: Individuals aged 16-35 with experience in climate activism and advocacy
GYCT Programme Overview
The GYCT is a collaborative initiative between the Global Youth Coalition (GYC) and researchers at the University of Oxford, including Oxford Net Zero and the Oxford Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment. This programme aims to equip young people with the necessary tools to engage effectively in international climate policy, ensuring their contributions are both cogent and relevant. The 2025 edition focuses on understanding how international climate policy evolves amidst a changing global geopolitical landscape. Participants will benefit from expert-led lectures, interactive peer-learning sessions, and practical advocacy skill-building exercises.
Programme Structure
The Global Youth Climate Training Programme (GYCT) 2025 is a fully virtual, interactive training initiative that runs from May 21 to July 16, 2025, with a final session on November 4, 2025. The structure includes:
Expert-Led Lecture Sessions: Weekly sessions delivered by leading academics, policymakers, and climate professionals.
Interactive Peer-Learning Workshops: Hands-on learning experiences where participants engage in discussions and collaborative activities.
Practical Assignments: Opportunities to develop advocacy and engagement skills through written tasks, research projects, and presentations.
COP30 Preparation: A dedicated session before COP30 (November 2025) to help participants understand negotiation dynamics and strategies.
Final Assignment & Certification: A concluding assignment where participants apply their learning to real-world climate advocacy, required for certification.
Thematic Areas
Each session of the programme focuses on key aspects of international climate policy, including:
1. Global Climate Policy & UNFCCC Processes
Key takeaways from past climate conferences (COP28, COP29)
Future expectations for COP30
The role of youth in international climate negotiations
2. Climate Change & Geopolitics
The influence of global power dynamics on climate action
Testimonies from frontline communities
3. Climate Finance & Loss and Damage
Understanding international climate finance mechanisms
The role of Article 2.1c in funding climate solutions
Exploring funding for loss & damage
4. Corporations and Climate Action
Examining corporate greenwashing and lobbying tactics
Monitoring and evaluating corporate climate commitments
5. Indigenous Knowledge & Nature-Based Solutions
Lessons from Indigenous Peoples on sustainable climate action
The role of nature-based solutions in climate resilience
Key demands for COP30
6. Climate Litigation & Legal Trends
The rise of climate lawsuits and youth-led legal actions
Success stories and challenges in climate litigation
7. Advocacy & Engagement Strategies (Interactive Workshops)
How to draft UNFCCC negotiation texts
Do’s and Don’ts for youth engagement in global climate talks
Developing and presenting policy position papers
What Participants Will Do (Fellow Activities)
Attend Virtual Training Sessions: Join weekly live lectures with leading climate experts.
Engage in Peer Discussions & Networking: Participate in interactive learning labs to exchange knowledge and strategies.
Complete Practical Assignments:
Prepare for COP30: Receive guidance on maximizing their impact at COP30 through advocacy and networking.
Access Exclusive Resources: Gain access to reading materials, slides, and recorded sessions for continuous learning.
Earn a Certificate & Apply for COP30 Bursary: Eligible participants who complete all sessions and the final assignment will receive a certificate of completion. They can also apply for a £3,000 bursary to support in-person participation at COP30.
Programme Benefits
Expert-Led Lectures: Gain insights from leading professionals in the field of international climate policy.
Interactive Peer-Learning Sessions: Engage with a global network of peers to share experiences and knowledge.
Advocacy Skill-Building Exercises: Develop practical skills to enhance your impact in climate negotiations.
Flexible Online Format: Access all programme components virtually, accommodating diverse schedules and locations.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 16 and 35 years old.
Climate Activism Experience: Demonstrated involvement in climate-related campaigns, projects, or community engagement.
Advocacy Skills: Experience in effectively advocating for change through communication, persuasion, or collaboration.
Passion for Climate Action: A strong desire to contribute meaningfully to global climate efforts.
Diversity Consideration: Preference for applicants from regions and groups most impacted by climate change.
Application Procedure:
Prepare Your Application: Reflect on your climate activism experience and advocacy skills.
Access the Application Form: Visit the official GYCT online application form to begin your submission.
Complete the Form: Provide all required information, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted by March 21, 2025.
📂 Documents Required:
Personal Information: Full name, contact details, and date of birth.
Experience Summary: Overview of your involvement in climate activism and advocacy.
Motivation Statement: Explanation of your interest in the programme and how it aligns with your goals.
Optional Supporting Documents: Any additional materials that showcase your commitment to climate action.
🗓️ Key Dates:
February 27, 2025: Applications open
March 21, 2025: Application deadline
April 21, 2025: Notification of application outcomes
May 21, 2025: Programme start date
July 16, 2025: Programme end date
November 4, 2025: Pre-COP30 reunion session
ℹ️ For more detailed information and to apply, visit the official GYCT page & download the PDF Call for Applications document.
🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK
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