The Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) Global Digital Pathways Program offers fully sponsored access to Coursera for 500 refugees and vulnerable youth to acquire globally competitive digital, professional, and leadership skills. The program is open to youth residing in Africa or identifying as Africans elsewhere, with priority given to refugees and vulnerable youth connected to RYCM partner communities. Participants commit to a 4-month guided learning journey to complete one of six curated pathways, such as Tech & Software Development or Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation. Upon successful completion, learners earn Coursera Verified Certificates and a Custom RYCM x Coursera Certificate.
Refugee Youth Changemakers Global Digital Pathways Program Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) Global Digital Pathways Program |
| Host Institution | Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) in partnership with Coursera |
| Category | Fully Funded Digital Skills Training/Certificate Program |
| Eligible Participants | Refugees and vulnerable youth (African residents or African diaspora) |
| Program Focus | Digital, Professional, and Leadership Skills |
| Duration | 4 months maximum per pathway (self-paced) |
| Award Value | Fully Paid Access to Premium Coursera Content & Globally Recognized Certificates |
| Application Deadline | Not Specified |
Refugee Youth Changemakers Global Digital Pathways Program Details
The Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) Global Digital Pathways Program is a transformative initiative designed to bridge the digital skills gap for refugees and vulnerable youth. By offering fully sponsored access to Coursera, this program equips 500 young people with high-demand skills needed to thrive in the global digital economy. The program emphasizes practical skills, career readiness, and community impact through structured online learning.
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Benefits of the Global Digital Pathways Program
The program offers a multi-tiered package of benefits focusing on learning quality, professional recognition, and career advancement, all at no cost to the learner.
Tier 1: Premium Access and Global Certification (Fully Paid Access & Recognized Certificates)
This tier covers the core value proposition: elimination of all tuition costs and provision of high-value, globally recognized credentials.
- Fully Paid Access to Premium Coursera Content: Learners receive complete, free access to Coursera’s high-quality professional certificates, courses, video lessons, quizzes, assignments, and learning tools, otherwise only available via subscription.
- Coursera Digital Badges & Globally Recognized Certificates: Every completed course earns a verified digital certificate backed by world-renowned universities and industry leaders (e.g., Google, Meta, IBM). These credentials significantly enhance professional profiles.
Tier 2: Specialized Recognition and Support (Custom Certificate & Guided Learning)
Beyond the standard Coursera certificates, participants receive specialized recognition and the structured support necessary for successful completion.
- Custom RYCM x Coursera Certificate of Learning: Graduates receive a specially designed certificate co-issued by Refugee Youth Changemakers and Coursera, which serves as a unique proof of commitment and achievement for job and scholarship applications.
- Structured 4-Month Guided Learning Journey: Participants follow a clear, supported roadmap with guidance, weekly check-ins, and recommended study schedules to ensure steady progress and completion within the maximum four-month period.
Tier 3: Career Advancement and Community (Opportunity to Join Additional Pathways & Career Support)
This tier focuses on maximizing future opportunities, allowing learners to build multi-faceted skill sets and join a supportive network.
- Opportunity to Join Additional Pathways After Completion: Upon successful completion of the first 4-month pathway, motivated learners become eligible to enroll in any of the remaining program paths, allowing for the development of multiple, versatile skill sets.
- Career and Opportunity Support: Learners receive practical guidance to translate their new skills into real opportunities, including CV writing assistance, LinkedIn profile setup, digital portfolio creation, and job platform navigation support.
- Access to a Strong Community of Changemakers: Participants join a vibrant network of refugee youth, mentors, and alumni, fostering collaboration, peer support, and shared motivation.
Eligibility Requirements for the Global Digital Pathways Program
The program is designed specifically for motivated youth who face barriers to traditional education and possess basic technological access.
- Residence/Identity: Youth that reside in Africa or those who identify as Africans living elsewhere in the world.
- Priority is given to Refugees or vulnerable youth connected to RYCM or partner communities.
- Time Commitment: Individuals willing to commit at least 4 months to complete their chosen pathway.
- Tech Access: Applicants must have basic access to digital tools (smartphone, laptop, or tablet) and internet connectivity.
- Motivation: Motivated learners who want to improve their skills, pursue career opportunities, or contribute to community development.
- Online Readiness: Youth who can confidently participate in online learning environments.
Note: No prior digital experience is required for the Digital Foundations pathway.
Program Paths
Learners choose one pathway to start with, which must be completed within the 4-month period before enrolling in another.
- Tech & Software Development Pathway
- Creative & Professional Skills Pathway
- Digital Foundations for Refugees & Vulnerable Youth
- Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation Pathway
- Foundations for Global Digital Careers (Software & Web)
- Leadership, Communication & Community Empowerment
How to Apply for the Global Digital Pathways Program (Step by Step)
The application process is straightforward, focusing on identifying motivated and eligible learners ready to commit to the 4-month duration.
- Visit the Application Page: Click the official “Apply Now” button on the RYCM website to open the online application form.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Enter your personal details, articulate your motivation, and select only one learning pathway you wish to start with.
- Submit Your Application: Your submission will be reviewed based on motivation, readiness, and the availability of the 500 program slots.
- Receive Confirmation & Onboarding: Selected learners will receive an email or message with program instructions and their personalized Coursera access link to begin.
Application Deadline: Not Specified
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the deadline to apply for the Global Digital Pathways Program?
The application deadline is Ongoing, meaning applications are accepted continuously. However, selection is based on the availability of the 500 program slots, so early application is advised.
2. Can I enroll in more than one learning pathway at the same time?
No. Learners can only choose one learning pathway to start with, and it must be completed within the 4-month period before they are eligible to enroll in a second pathway.
3. How long do I have to complete the chosen learning pathway?
You have a maximum of 4 months to complete the coursework for each selected program. While the pace is self-guided, this time limit encourages consistency and structured learning.
4. What kind of digital tools and internet access are required?
Applicants need basic access to digital tools such as a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, along with reliable internet connectivity sufficient to participate in online learning environments (watching video lessons and submitting assignments).
5. Is there a charge or fee for the Coursera content?
No. The program provides fully paid access to premium Coursera content, including professional certificates and all learning materials, at zero cost to the accepted learner.
6. Are prior digital skills or technical experience required to apply?
No prior digital experience is required to apply, especially for those selecting the Digital Foundations for Refugees & Vulnerable Youth pathway. Motivation and commitment are the key requirements.
7. What kind of certification will I receive upon completion?
You will receive both Coursera Verified Certificates and Digital Badges (globally recognized) and a Custom RYCM x Coursera Certificate of Learning (demonstrating commitment and program achievement).
8. Who is prioritized in the selection process?
While open to all African youth, priority is given to Refugees or vulnerable youth who are already connected to RYCM or its partner communities.
9. What happens after I complete my first 4-month pathway?
Upon successful completion, you become eligible to join another pathway. This allows motivated learners to continuously build multiple skill sets across different domains.
10. Does the program offer career support?
Yes. Learners receive dedicated Career and Opportunity Support, which includes help with CV writing, setting up LinkedIn profiles, digital portfolio creation, and practical guidance on navigating job and internship platforms.
