- posted by Admin
- 2026-07-07
The ECOWAS Centre for Youth and Sports Development is taking part in the 2026 World Youth Development Forum in China
The Centre for Youth and Sports Development (CDJS) of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) took part in the World Youth Development Forum (World Youth Development Forum – WYDF) 2026, held from 14 to 20 June 2026 in Wuhan and Shiyan, in Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China.
Held under the theme of sustainable development and youth empowerment, this international gathering brought together government officials, representatives of international organisations, youth institutions, researchers, entrepreneurs and youth leaders from various regions of the world to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with youth development.
The opening ceremony and plenary session highlighted the strategic role of young people in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants also took part in several thematic forums focusing in particular on the creative economy and cultural industries, artificial intelligence and youth empowerment, volunteering and poverty reduction, as well as mechanisms for international cooperation in support of young people.
During the forum, the ECOWAS Centre for Youth and Sports Development contributed to discussions on policies and programmes designed to build young people’s capacities, promote entrepreneurship and encourage their participation in the economic and social development of the West African region. This participation also provided an opportunity to showcase ECOWAS’s flagship youth initiatives, notably its programmes on volunteering, employability, entrepreneurship and skills development.
The Forum provided an ideal setting for dialogue and partnership among stakeholders in youth development. The discussions highlighted the need to strengthen South-South cooperation and international partnerships in order to create more opportunities for young people and support their contribution to peace, innovation and global prosperity.
On the sidelines of the proceedings, participants undertook several field visits to innovation centres, universities and cultural and historical sites in Hubei Province. These activities provided an opportunity to learn about China’s experiences in technological innovation, economic development and the promotion of cultural heritage.
Through its participation in this important international meeting, the Centre for Youth and Sports Development reaffirms ECOWAS’s commitment to promoting a dynamic, skilled youth that is fully engaged in the sustainable transformation of West Africa.
