What is the Young Diplomats of Ghana (YDG) Programme all about?
The Young Diplomats of Ghana (YDG) is a non-governmental network dedicated to nurturing a new generation of aspiring leaders and diplomats in Ghana by equipping them with the skills, exposure, and practical experience required for effective leadership in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.
At its core, YDG functions as a convening platform that connects young people with diplomats, government officials, civil society leaders, academics, and business professionals. Through our well-curated training models, our Delegates are exposed to real-world diplomatic practice, gain insight into policy and governance processes, refine their professional identity and personal branding, and build professional networks that extend beyond the classroom.
Collectively, these experiences equip Delegates with transferable skills, practical exposure, and professional networks that support personal and career development across diplomacy, international development, public policy and governance, international business, advocacy and civil society, multilateral institutions, and the private sector, among others.
How can I be a part of YDG?
You can be part of YDG either by joining as a Delegate (the primary beneficiary of the YDG programme) or by participating in YDG’s open programmes and events, including the YDG Forum, Ghana Youth Meeting (GYM), and other public engagements.
How do I become Delegate?
Students and young professionals aged 18 to 35 years who wish to be considered for selection as YDG Delegates are eligible to apply when applications are officially opened.
Applications for YDG Cohort VI will open on Monday, January 12, 2026, and close on Friday, January 30, 2026.
After submitting a completed application form together with the required supporting documents, shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in a series of interviews and assessments. Successful candidates from this process are then selected as Delegates for the respective Cohort. An application manual will be made available to guide applicants through each stage of the process.
Are non-Ghanaians eligible to apply?
Yes. Other African nationals residing in Ghana may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact applications@youngdiplomatsghana.org for further guidance.
What do you look out for in selecting Delegates?
YDG seeks to engage young, vibrant Ghanaians who demonstrate creativity, ambition, and a strong desire to learn. We value individuals who are intellectually curious, well-informed about current affairs, and passionate about contributing to Ghana’s sustainable development.
Prospective Delegates should show an interest in diplomacy and international relations, be confident and articulate, and demonstrate a commitment to community and national development. These qualities help ensure that Delegates are able to engage meaningfully with the programme and apply the knowledge, skills, and exposure gained through YDG toward their personal and professional growth.
What are the key thematic areas of the YDG Programme?
The YDG Programme is structured around three core training models designed to equip Delegates with practical and transferable skills relevant across multiple professional pathways: Diplomacy (Model 1), International Development (Model II), and Policy Advocacy (Model III).
These models are curated to help Delegates develop and build transferable skills such as critical thinking, policy analysis, research, communication, negotiation, leadership, and stakeholder engagement, which are applicable across diplomacy, public service, development, civil society, international organizations, and the private sector.
Is the YDG Programme academic or practical in nature?
The YDG Programme adopts a blended approach that combine conceptual learning with practical, hands-on experience. While Delegates are introduced to core theories and frameworks in diplomacy, international development, and policy advocacy, strong emphasis is placed on applied learning through policy writing, advocacy campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and real-world diplomatic interactions to ensure the development of practical, transferable, and leadership skills.
Are there any financial commitments after being selected as a Delegate?
Yes, Delegates will be required to pay a Subscription and Commitment Fee for the entire 11-month duration of a cohort. A part payment will be required after confirmation of admission/selection offer within 3 weeks ahead of the official launch of the cohort. Delegates will then be required to devise their own flexible payment plan to settle the balance within 6 months into the programme.
Subscription and Commitment fee may be reviewed for every Cohort/Class to place us in a better position to offer the best for our Delegates.
Does YDG promote gender balance and regional diversity?
Yes. YDG is committed to inclusivity and diversity. Deliberate efforts are made to ensure gender balance, regional representation, and a broad mix of professional and academic backgrounds within each cohort.
Can unsuccessful applicants reapply in future cohorts?
Yes. Applicants who are not selected in a particular cohort are encouraged to reapply in subsequent application cycles, provided they continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
What happens after I am selected as a Delegate?
Once selected as a YDG Delegate, you are expected to participate fully in all programme activities and demonstrate a high level of commitment. Each cohort runs for approximately 8 months, followed by an additional month for project work. Activities are scheduled mainly on weekends to accommodate students and working professionals, although occasional weekday or morning engagements and travel may be required.
Are there any financial commitments after being selected as a Delegate?
Yes. Delegates are required to pay a Commitment Fee for the full duration of the cohort. For reference, the fee for YDG Cohort V was GHS 2,000.00; fees may vary by cohort.