Apply for the United Nations University Global Youth MIDORI Platform (GYM) 2026, a free climate change and sustainability training programme for undergraduate students worldwide. Earn a certificate, build global networks, and compete for a fully funded study programme in Tokyo.
Overview
The United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) has opened applications for the Global Youth MIDORI Platform (GYM) 2026, a free international training programme designed to equip young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainability challenges.
The programme brings together undergraduate students from around the world to participate in intensive online training sessions, discussions with global experts, and collaborative learning experiences focused on environmental sustainability. Participants who successfully complete the programme receive an official certificate, while top performers earn the opportunity to attend a fully funded environmental study programme in Tokyo, Japan.
About the Global Youth MIDORI Platform (GYM)
The Global Youth MIDORI Platform was launched by UNU-IAS and the AEON Environmental Foundation to empower youth to become leaders in environmental action and sustainable development. Since its launch, the programme has engaged students from multiple countries and continues to create opportunities for young people to contribute to global environmental solutions.
The programme focuses on:
- Climate change
- Biodiversity conservation
- Circular economy
- Sustainable development
- Youth participation in environmental decision-making
- International environmental governance
Benefits
One of the biggest questions applicants ask is: What do I gain?
Selected participants will receive:
- Free participation in the programme.
- Expert-led climate change and sustainability training.
- Certificate of completion.
- Global networking opportunities with students from different countries.
- Capacity-building on biodiversity, climate action, and sustainability.
- Opportunities to engage with international environmental experts.
- Membership in the Global Youth MIDORI Platform network.
- Participation in outreach and leadership activities beyond the programme.
Additional Benefits for Top Awardees
The top three participants in the speech contest will receive:
- Fully funded trip to Tokyo, Japan.
- Round-trip economy-class airfare.
- Accommodation during the programme.
- Meals during the official programme period.
- Participation in the 9th MIDORI Prize for Biodiversity Award Ceremony.
- Site visits to leading circular economy initiatives.
- Dialogue sessions with climate and biodiversity experts at UNU Headquarters.
Programme Structure
1. Online Training Programme
Dates: 4–7 August 2026
Participants will attend four days of intensive online training covering:
- Biodiversity science
- Climate change science
- International climate negotiations
- Circular economy
- Food systems
- Private sector sustainability
- Youth engagement in environmental governance
Training sessions will be conducted online and include lectures, discussions, and debate activities.
2. Speech Contest
On the final day, participants will deliver presentations reflecting on their learning experiences and environmental perspectives.
The best three presentations will receive awards and invitations to the Tokyo study programme.
3. Environmental Study Programme in Tokyo
Dates: 26–29 August 2026
Top awardees will participate in a fully funded study visit that includes:
- Environmental site visits.
- Expert dialogues.
- Networking opportunities.
- Attendance at international biodiversity events.
Eligibility
Another key question is: Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be full-time undergraduate students at an accredited university.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Have reliable internet access and a computer with camera and microphone.
- Be available for all online sessions.
- Be willing to participate in programme activities beyond 2026.
- Have strong interest or experience in climate change, biodiversity, sustainability, advocacy, research, or environmental action.
- Hold a passport valid until at least February 2027.
- Not have previously participated in the GYM programme.
Application Process
The third major question applicants ask is: How do I apply?
Step 1
Complete the online application form.
Step 2
Prepare responses to five essay questions covering:
- Environmental challenges in your community.
- Your actions and contributions.
- Motivation for joining GYM.
- Interest in the Tokyo study programme.
- Future engagement plans.
Step 3
Submit the application in English before the deadline.
Step 4
Await notification of results.
Successful candidates will be informed by email and may be asked to provide supporting documents.
Required Documents
Successful applicants may later be asked to submit:
- Student identification card.
- Proof of university enrollment.
- Official language test scores (if requested).
- Passport copy.
- Additional supporting documents requested by the organizers.
Deadline
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 10 April 2026 |
| Applications Close | 10 May 2026 |
| Successful Applicants Notified | 21 July 2026 |
| Orientation Sessions | 27 & 30 July 2026 |
| Online Training | 4–7 August 2026 |
| Tokyo Study Programme | 26–29 August 2026 |
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
| Organization | United Nations University (UNU-IAS) |
| Programme | Global Youth MIDORI Platform (GYM) 2026 |
| Type | Free Certificate Programme |
| Location | Online |
| Eligibility | Undergraduate Students Worldwide |
| Cost | Free |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Duration | 4 Days |
| Study Visit | Fully Funded Tokyo Programme for Top 3 Participants |
| Application Deadline | 10 May 2026 |
Conclusion
The UNU Global Youth MIDORI Platform 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for undergraduate students interested in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability. Through expert-led training, international networking, certificate recognition, and the possibility of a fully funded study programme in Japan, participants gain valuable knowledge and leadership experience that can strengthen their environmental careers and advocacy efforts.
For students passionate about creating sustainable solutions and engaging in global environmental action, this programme provides a unique platform to learn, connect, and lead.
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