From 07-09 February, 20 youth wing representatives from 8 political parties participated in the first Public Policy Academy workshop (for more information about the Academy, click here).  The first workshop was focused on identifying a community issue and forming a public policy response.

Youth leaders were able to increase their understanding of the importance of identifying community problems and developing public policies in response. The participants also gained experience in presenting them propose policy responses. Working in mixed groups through a simulation exercise, the participants practiced their communication and presentation skills in front of an audience.

This learning process was based on the principles of non-formal education. It also supported different learning styles by combining individual and group learning activities.

By the end of the first workshop, participants understood the policy cycle, the place of policy briefs in the policy cycle, how to identify a community problem, and how to create a policy in response.

The purpose of the Academy is to strengthen the capacities of political parties’ youth wings to create evidence-based policies, as well as nurture a culture of dialogue and cross-party exchange and communication.

In the coming months, young leaders will also:

• develop policy briefs to present to citizens and parties;
• develop action plans; and
• implement small initiatives.