Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA), a prominent youth-led NGO in Rwanda, has opened applications for the 5th Cohort of the Generation Leadership Academy (GLA). This two-week intensive program is designed to equip Rwandan youth aged 18 to 26 with the essential skills for effective leadership and meaningful participation in governance. The academy features a weeklong residential camp where participants engage in deep-dive mentorship, advocacy training, and leadership workshops. Eligible candidates must be Rwandan citizens with at least a university-level background (A1 or Bachelorโs). The application deadline for this transformative leadership cycle is January 15, 2026.


Generation Leadership Academy Cohort 5 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA) |
| Target Country | Rwanda |
| Program Level | Leadership Mentoring & Advocacy |
| Eligible Ages | 18 โ 26 Years Old |
| Key Focus | Governance, Leadership, & Civic Engagement |
| Minimum Education | University Student / A1 / Bachelorโs Degree |
| Application Deadline | January 15, 2026 |
Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA) Generation Leadership Academy Cohort 5
The Generation Leadership Academy (GLA) stands as a cornerstone initiative for Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA), an organization established in 2016 to foster an inclusive society in Rwanda. By focusing on “Human Sustainable Development,” the GLA empowers young Rwandans to become active architects of their nation’s future rather than mere observers of decision-making processes.

Join our Telegram Channel for Instant Scholarship Updates
Cohort 5 continues the tradition of intensive, peer-to-peer, and expert-led mentorship. The program is designed to break down barriers to youth participation at all levels of government and civil society. Through the GLA, CVA aims to amplify the voices of girls and youth, ensuring they possess the confidence and technical knowledge to engage in meaningful advocacy and systemic change.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Awards of the Generation Leadership Academy (GLA) Cohort 5
The academy provides a high-value experiential learning package focused on professional and personal leadership development.
Tier 1: Intensive Residential Mentorship (Full Participation)
- Leadership Training: Two weeks of intensive instruction on effective leadership, decision-making, and organizational management.
- Residential Fellowship: Full coverage of the weeklong camped portion of the academy, including accommodation and meals for selected participants.
- Strategic Experience: Hands-on experience in mock decision-making scenarios and policy advocacy simulations.
Tier 2: Skills Acquisition & Empowerment
- Knowledge Transfer: Access to curriculum-based modules on good governance, human rights, and sustainable development goals in the Rwandan context.
- Confidence Building: Specialized workshops designed to build public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking skills for civic engagement.
- Mentorship Access: Direct networking with established leaders from the NGO sector and government structures.
Tier 3: Alumni & Network Integration
- CVA Network: Immediate entry into the Citizen Voice and Actions alumni database for ongoing advocacy and employment opportunities.
- Civil Society Engagement: Enhanced visibility for youths affiliated with civil society organizations and formal youth structures.
Eligibility Requirements for Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA) Generation Leadership Academy (GLA) Cohort 5
- Academic/Leadership: Must be a university student or hold at least an A1 or Bachelorโs degree. A passion for leadership and governance is essential.
- Study Status: Applicants must be Rwandan Youth aged between 18 and 26 at the time of the program.
- Visa Status: (Not applicable) Applicants must be willing and able to participate in a weeklong residential camp.
- Program Admission: Preference is given to youth already affiliated with civil society organizations (CSOs) or existing youth structures.
How to Apply for Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA) Generation Leadership Academy (GLA) Cohort 5 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Complete the official online application form provided by Citizen Voice and Actions for GLA Cohort 5.
- Automatic Evaluation: Applications are screened to confirm Rwandan citizenship, age (18-26), and educational level (University/A1/Bachelor’s).
- Eligibility Assessment: The selection committee reviews the applicant’s passion for leadership and their prior involvement in civic engagement or CSOs.
- Notification of Award: Finalists will be contacted for further assessment or confirmed for the two-week program shortly after the January 15 deadline.
Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Generation Leadership Academy (GLA)?
The GLA is a two-week intensive mentoring program designed to equip Rwandan youth with leadership, governance, and civic engagement skills.
2. Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, the program is specifically for Rwandan youth aged between 18 and 26.
3. Do I need a university degree to apply?
You must at least be a current university student, or hold an A1 or Bachelorโs degree.
4. What is the duration of the academy?
The total program lasts two weeks, which includes a weeklong camped/residential session.
5. Who is the host organization?
The program is hosted by Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA), a youth-led NGO in Rwanda founded in 2016.
6. Are there any fees to participate?
The program is a scholarship-based mentoring initiative; applicants should check for any minor administrative requirements, but core training and camping are typically covered.
7. Can I apply if I am not from Rwanda?
No, the eligibility criteria explicitly state that applicants must be Rwandan youth.
8. What topics are covered in the curriculum?
The curriculum focuses on Leadership, Youth Engagement, Good Governance, and meaningful participation in decision-making.
9. Are students in civil society organizations (CSOs) preferred?
Yes, youth affiliated with CSOs and existing youth structures are especially encouraged to apply.
10. When is the final deadline for Cohort 5?
The application deadline is January 15, 2026.












