Youth Activities (OMYV) Training Programme – Introductory Module

The 2023 Cohort of the Open Minds, Young Voices (OMYV) – Youth Activists Programme had their Introductory Module from March 25^th to 26^th, 2023.

While the Resident Representative, Dr Daniel Mann, introduced the fellows to the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) and linkages to the FES Network, Olawunmi Okupe took the Introduction to the OMYV Alumni Network session. Olawunmi is the current Network Representative of the OMYV Alumni Network. Hands-on and practical sessions were held on the importance of networks and teamwork using presentations and several fun activities.

It is essential to mention that this nine (9) months intensive training program is designed to provide selected young Nigerians with skills, knowledge, and ethical values. In addition, the experience will encourage and enable them to work and advocate for social justice, good governance, and a more peaceful Nigeria.

The application process for the 2023 edition received over 240 applicants from all over Nigeria, with 50 progressing to the interview stage. At the end of the exercise, 26 applicants got selected. During the training period, this group of young Nigerians will learn, unlearn, and relearn insights across diverse sectors, including civil society, labour unions and activism, academia, administration, politics, private businesses et cetera.

Since its inaugural year in 2018, over 150 young Nigerians have completed the training. These youths work and advocate for social justice, good governance, meaningful youth engagement, social cohesion, and a more peaceful Nigeria in their different spaces.

Until November 2023, these young activists will be exposed to relevant national and international topics while nurturing a culture of discussion and constructive criticism.