Organization: International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Program Name: Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP)
Category: Leadership Programme
Deadline: 23:59 CET on Tuesday, 31 March 2026
Eligibility: Ages 18 to 28
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
The International Telecommunication Union has opened applications for the 2026–2027 Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme in partnership with Huawei. The official page describes the initiative as a programme that engages, empowers, and inspires young digital leaders and changemakers from around the world.
About the Programme
GCYLP supports young people who put forward community-driven projects that are creative, innovative, feasible, and focused on a more inclusive and empowered digital future.
Organizers
The official source identifies the programme as a project of the ITU Telecommunication Development Sector carried out in partnership with Huawei.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 23:59 CET on Tuesday, 31 March 2026.
Eligibility
Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old and must be passionate about creating meaningful change in their communities through digital development. The source also states that candidates should either be currently enrolled in tertiary education programmes in STEM or closely related fields, or have recently graduated from such programmes.
Profile of Fellows
The page explains that fellows are expected to have strong communication skills so they can actively participate in training sessions, networking opportunities, and events offered through the programme.
Benefits
Selected fellows receive virtual mentorship and leadership training sessions delivered by ITU and Huawei in collaboration with other partner. In addition, fellows have the opportunity to join an in-person global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland.
Funding
Every selected fellow receives an initial grant of $5,000 USD to carry out a digital development project of their choice. The most impactful projects at the end of the programme are awarded an extra $5,000 USD for scaling, meaning the total potential grant can reach up to $10,000 USD.
Annual Fellowship Size
The page states that 30 young fellows per year receive guidance, training, and financial support through the programme.
Project Implementation
According to the source, the programme helps fellows implement digital development projects in diverse communities across the world. It also gives young leaders the chance to launch new digital development ideas or expand the reach of existing projects.
Support Contact
For questions about the application and selection process, applicants are directed to the FAQs or to the email address GCYLP@itu.int.
