The Generation Connect Young Leadership Program 2026 in Switzerland is now accepting applications. The International Telecommunication Union is working with Huawei to create this fully sponsored worldwide project. Young leaders from all nations are welcome to participate in the program, and chosen individuals will go to Geneva in July 2026 to take part in a one-week leadership and development course.
The program’s goal is to inspire, develop, and connect young digital leaders and changemakers who are enthusiastic about leveraging technology to improve society. Innovative digital initiatives that tackle community issues, such as enhancing digital access, education, sustainability, or social development through technology, are welcomed from applicants.
Thirty fellows in all will be chosen for the program. Experts in digital development and innovation will provide them with engaging workshops, networking opportunities, mentorship, and practical training. Fellows will also be given financial assistance to carry out their suggested digital initiatives in their local areas.
Additionally, the program gives participants the chance to network with other innovators, policymakers, and world leaders, which helps them develop their leadership abilities, broaden their knowledge, and create worldwide networks in the subject of digital transformation.
Host Country: Geneva, Switzerland
Funded By: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Opportunity Type: Fellowship, virtual training
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to All Nationalities: The program is open to applicants from any nation in the world.
- Candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 28 at the time of application.
- Interest in Digital Development: Candidates should be passionate about spearheading and carrying out a project that will benefit their community.
- Educational Background: Applicants should be either current students or recent graduates with a background in STEM (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics) from a university or other comparable institution.
- Language Requirement: Since the program’s activities and sessions will be conducted in English, applicants must have strong communication skills in the language.
Benefits:
- Global Development Week: A week-long in-person global development event will be held in Geneva for a chosen group of fellows. Huawei and the International Telecommunication Union will pay for all travel and participation costs.
- Virtual Mentorship & Training: To assist participants in efficiently developing and managing their digital initiatives, ITU and Huawei specialists will provide online mentorship, training sessions, and guidance.
- Project Grants: To start carrying out their digital development project, each chosen fellow will get an initial grant of USD 5,000.
- Extra Funding for High-Impact Projects: An extra USD 5,000 in funding may be given to projects that show a significant impact and innovation.
- Project Focus: In order to address actual community issues and advance digital inclusion and innovation, fellows will plan and carry out their own digital development initiatives.
Deadline: 31st March 2026
