Apply for the United Nations University (UNU-IAS) Global Youth MIDORI platform (GYM) 2026 — a free, 3-day online certificate programme in English for undergraduate students worldwide focused on climate change, biodiversity, and youth action. Applications open April 2026.
Overview
The Global Youth MIDORI platform (GYM) is a youth capacity development programme run by United Nations University – Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) in partnership with the AEON Environmental Foundation. Launched in 2024, GYM is designed to equip undergraduate students with practical knowledge, skills, and networks to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainability challenges.
For the 2026 intake, UNU notes that applications will open in April 2026 and programme details will be updated when the call opens. Participation is free, and the core training is delivered online over three days.
Programme Details
What the programme covers
GYM focuses on:
- Climate change and biodiversity science basics
- International policy processes (e.g., CBD COP / UNFCCC COP)
- Youth participation and leadership in sustainability
- Communication skills (including a speech component)
Format and duration
- Type: Online certificate programme
- Time to complete: 3 days (intensive online training)
- Language: English
- Cost: Free (participants cover internet and required equipment)
Programme Structure
1) Online training + speech component
Selected participants join expert-led sessions and then deliver a short speech reflecting what they learned. Certificates are awarded to eligible participants who meet attendance and participation requirements.
2) International exposure opportunities for top performers
The programme includes a performance-based awards element. In previous cycles, top awardees were offered the chance to participate in a UN climate conference (subject to logistics and conditions). For the 2026 cohort, international conference participation details should be confirmed once the updated call opens.
3) Follow-up outreach and platform participation
Participants may be expected to join follow-up outreach activities and engage with alumni and future GYM activities as part of the platform community.
Eligibility
Applicants typically must:
- Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate university programme (any country)
- Be proficient in English
- Have stable internet and a computer device with camera/microphone
- Be in good health and available for all programme activities (including possible travel, if applicable)
- Submit assignments on time and respond promptly to the Secretariat
- Have experience in, or be engaged in, actions addressing climate change and/or biodiversity loss
- Not have previously participated in GYM
- Not be funded by other schemes for UN climate conference participation (where applicable)
Applicants must also agree to programme policies (e.g., personal data protection, code of conduct, consent for media use).
Benefits
Participants can expect:
- Free, structured training led by experts
- Practical learning on climate, biodiversity, and sustainable development
- Networking with global youth peers and sustainability stakeholders
- A certificate of participation/completion (subject to meeting requirements)
- Potential competitive recognition/awards based on performance (as defined in the updated call)
Fees and Costs
- Programme fee: Free
- Participant costs: Internet access and any required equipment
- If international participation is offered to awardees, the programme may cover major travel costs and allowances under UNU travel rules, while participants may still need to cover items like passport costs and incidental expenses (final rules depend on the updated 2026 call).
How to Apply
For the 2026 programme, applications open in April 2026. When the application window opens, applicants should:
- Submit the online application via the official UNU GYM application page (when published).
- Prepare to provide supporting documents if requested (e.g., student ID or proof of enrolment, English proficiency proof where applicable).
- Be ready to complete any required pre-training assignment (such as a short essay) if included in the 2026 instructions.
Contact (GYM Secretariat): gymsecretariat@unu.edu
Key Dates
- Applications open: April 2026
- Other dates (deadline, training schedule, and notifications) will be confirmed in the updated 2026 call.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Global Youth MIDORI platform (GYM) |
| Host | UNU-IAS (United Nations University) |
| Level | Certificate programme (Undergraduate) |
| Format | Online |
| Duration | 3 days (intensive training) |
| Cost | Free |
| Language | English |
| Opens | April 2026 |
| Who can apply | Undergraduate students worldwide (subject to criteria) |
| Contact | gymsecretariat@unu.edu |
Conclusion
If you’re an undergraduate student looking for a credible, global UN-backed training experience in climate change, biodiversity, and youth participation, the UNU-IAS Global Youth MIDORI platform (GYM) 2026 is a strong option. Watch for the official call in April 2026, then apply early once the updated deadlines and requirements are released.
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