The Naymote Partners for Democratic Development is set to host the 11th cohort of the Young Political Leadership School Africa (YPLS Africa) from August 12-16, 2024, in Liberia.
This flagship program will unite 100 emerging leaders from 11 African countries under the theme “Empower the Future: African Youth Leaders for Sustainable Development, Peace, and Security.”
This year’s cohort includes young politicians, activists, civic leaders, and civil society representatives.
Throughout the week-long training, they will engage in 16 intensive learning sessions led by nine international and national experts.
The founder of YPLS Africa, Eddie D. Jarwolo, emphasized the importance of empowering Africa’s youth to transform their role in politics and democratic processes saying, “The numerical strength of young people in Africa is an asset, but there needs to be a paradigm shift in how they engage in politics.”
According to him, YPLS Africa was created to equip young leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to maximize their political participation and decision-making, and to cultivate a new value system that will position them as the next generation of leaders
He added that, the curriculum will cover a wide range of topics crucial to effective leadership, including political campaign organizing, political communication, electoral management, good governance, ethical leadership, emotional intelligence, advocacy and networking, anti-corruption, leadership in political parties, political ideology, and the Africa Agenda 2063.
He stated that, upon completing the training, participants will join the YPLS Africa Alumni Association, which boasts a network of over 1,030 young leaders across the continent.
“These alumni are actively contributing to democratic governance in their countries, leading political parties, and spearheading initiatives that promote civic engagement, policy reforms, and accountability. Their work includes hosting town hall meetings, educating citizens about governmental processes, and conducting voter education all aimed at strengthening democratic values and principles in Africa,” he expressed.
However, the program will be inaugurated by President Joseph Boakai, who will deliver the keynote address.
