UNESCO SDG4 Youth & Student Network 2026–2027 Cohort: Applications Now Open

Application deadline: June 10, 2025

UNESCO has officially opened applications for the 2026–2027 cohort of the SDG4 Youth & Student Network—a dynamic platform uniting young leaders who are passionate about transforming global education systems. This international network plays a vital role in driving progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4): ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Managed directly by UNESCO, the SDG4 Youth & Student Network brings together forward-thinking individuals committed to education advocacy, innovation, and policy influence. It serves as a space for meaningful collaboration, dialogue, and action where youth voices shape the future of global education.

About the SDG4 Youth & Student Network

The network represents a vibrant and growing global community of changemakers, between the ages of 16 and 30, who are actively involved in youth-led, non-governmental, and non-profit organizations. Members participate in diverse initiatives including high-level forums, workshops, advocacy campaigns, and co-designed projects that tackle real-world educational challenges.

Participants serve on a voluntary basis for a two-year term, from January 2026 to December 2027, and engage in various inception activities between October and December 2025 alongside existing members.

Who Can Apply?

To be considered for this unique opportunity, applicants must:

• Be aged 16 to 30 at the time of application.
• Be actively engaged in a recognized non-profit youth or student-led organization focused on educational development aligned with SDG4 – Education 2030.
• Demonstrate a consistent commitment to education-related initiatives at local, national, regional, or global levels.
• Have no conflict of interest, including holding positions in government or for-profit entities that could affect neutrality.
• Understand that participation is non-remunerated and does not establish any official employment relationship with UNESCO.

Selection Criteria & Process

UNESCO will appoint 60 to 100 members for the 2026–2027 cohort through a transparent selection process:

• May – July 2025: Applications accepted.
• July – August 2025: Applications reviewed by a selection committee comprising UNESCO staff and current executive members of the SDG4 Network. Additional oversight will be provided by a UN body specializing in youth affairs.
• September 2025: Selected candidates will be notified.

Apply early to increase your chances. Follow Opportunitypool on Whatsapp and LinkedIn for real-time updates.

The committee will evaluate applications based on:

• Demonstrated passion for education and sustainable development.
• Proven leadership qualities and grassroots involvement.
• Clear commitment to active participation throughout the program.
• Strong representation of diversity, including gender, regional origin, and cultural background.

How to Apply

Candidates must thoroughly detail their involvement in education advocacy and answer a range of questions about their impact, motivation, and vision for the future of education.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE