The One Young World Academy is a globally recognised e-learning platform designed to empower young leaders to make an impact. In partnership with the Gates Foundation, we are launching a special series focused on critical global health issues. The Academy series will explore how multifaceted approaches - combining innovation, advocacy, and partnerships are essential to advancing global health outcomes.
About the Course
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Health Division aims to reduce inequities in health by developing new tools and strategies to reduce the burden of infectious disease and the leading causes of child mortality in developing countries. This academy series will focus on four of The Foundation’s key global health programme areas namely; polio eradication, malaria eradication, family planning and maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH).
Why apply?
Expert guidance
Learn from top global health experts about current and emerging interventions on malaria, polio, family planning and MNCH.
Make an impact
Gain practical insights that you can apply to enhance the effectiveness of your own projects and initiatives.
Share your work on a world stage
The top eight Academy Graduates will receive a full scholarship to participate in the One Young World Summit 2025 in Munich alongside 2,000+ delegates from more than 190 countries.
Who can join?
-
Aged 18 – 35.
-
Working in the private/public sector, politics, or activism. From or living in one of the following eligible countries; Niger, Senegal, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire.
-
Young leaders from the private and public sectors, political scenarios, civil society and activists interested in advancing global health in relation to malaria eradication, polio eradication, family planning or MNCH.
Coursework
At the conclusion of the series, you will be invited to submit a video or essay covering one of the four-session themes. Eight winners will be selected based on their submissions, and receive full funding to participate in the One Young World Summit 2025 in addition to a year-long learning and development programme consisting One Young World’s Global Leadership Programme and Action Accelerator.
Sessions
Challenges and Opportunities in Malaria Eradication
The session will address the challenges of maintaining momentum in the fight against malaria amidst various global health priorities. It will also highlight inspiring success stories from across Africa, showcasing how targeted efforts, community engagement, and international partnerships have led to substantial progress in eradicating malaria.
Strategies and Success Stories in Polio Eradication
Polio, once a devastating disease worldwide, has seen a remarkable reduction in cases due to concerted global health initiatives. This session will explore the history of polio eradication efforts, the strategies employed, and the challenges faced. Additionally, we will highlight the critical role of international organisations, governments, and communities in these efforts.
Empowering Africa through Family Planning
This session will focus on advancing family planning initiatives across Africa, highlighting effective strategies and innovative approaches to meet the diverse needs of communities. We will explore successful family planning programs that are culturally sensitive and inclusive, showcasing practical examples of how these programs are making a difference.
Enhancing Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health
This session aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of efforts to improve maternal MNCH across Africa. Despite significant challenges, targeted health initiatives have made notable progress in reducing maternal and child mortality rates. This session will explore the history of MNCH efforts, the strategies employed, and the challenges faced.
Timeline
Applications close: 7 February 2025 (but early applications are encouraged).
Sessions released: From 31 March 2025.
Essay/video submission deadline: 23 May 2025.