The UNESCO-APCEIU Youth Leadership Workshop on Global Citizenship Education (GCED) is a premier international program designed to empower young activists to lead transformative education initiatives in their communities. While your information refers to the 8th edition, the program has now reached its 12th edition for the 2026 cycle.
Organized by the Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU), this workshop focuses on SDG 4.7, which aims to ensure all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development.
Workshop Highlights: 12th Edition (2026)
The 2026 program has evolved into a hybrid format, combining digital learning with in-person leadership training.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Seoul, South Korea (Hybrid/Online components included) |
| Main Theme | “Youth Voices for Transforming Education through GCED” |
| Duration | 1 Week (Intensive) |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Airfare, Accommodation, Meals) |
| Application Window | Typically opens in February/March annually |
Fully Funded Benefits
Selected participants receive a comprehensive scholarship package from APCEIU:
- Travel: Round-trip international airfare to and from Seoul.
- Accommodation & Meals: Provided for the entire duration of the workshop in Korea.
- Local Logistics: Ground transportation within Korea for field trips and site visits.
- Insurance: Basic accident insurance during the workshop period.
- Grants: Graduates of the workshop become eligible for the GCED Grant & Mentorship Program, which provides seed funding for local projects.
Eligibility Criteria
To maintain the focus on global development, the eligibility requirements are strictly enforced:
- Age: Generally between 18 and 28 years old.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of an Official Development Assistance (ODA) recipient country or a UNESCO member state.
- Prerequisite: Applicants must complete the “GCED for Youth” e-learning course on the GCED Online Campus and attach the certificate to their application.
- Experience: A minimum of 2 years of active experience in youth-led activities or community work.
- Language: Proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL is not required, but the application and sessions are entirely in English).
Application Process
- Certification: Complete the mandatory e-learning course at the GCED Online Campus.
- Online Form: Submit the application via the official Youth4GCED portal.
- Review: Applications are screened based on gender and geographical balance.
- Notification: Results are typically sent via email within 2-3 weeks of the deadline.
2026 Note: The 11th International Conference on GCED is also scheduled to take place in Seoul on August 26–27, 2026. Many workshop graduates are invited to attend this larger conference as youth representatives.