Young Feminist AI School 2026: Online UN Women Programme for Young Leaders

Scholarship Overview

The Young Feminist AI School 2026 is a free, fully online 12-week educational programme supported by UN Women. It aims to empower young individuals, specifically focusing on young women and girls, to leverage Artificial Intelligence for advocacy, civic engagement, and policy influence. The programme runs from August to October 2026, requiring a weekly commitment of approximately four hours.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Yes, Pakistani students are eligible to apply. The programme is open to participants worldwide, and there are no geographic restrictions listed in the official criteria. Pakistani youth interested in gender equality, digital rights, and social justice are encouraged to submit their applications.

Funding and Benefits

This initiative is completely free of charge. Participants receive:

• Zero registration or tuition fees.
• Live online expert-led training.
• Practical experience in ethical AI tool development.
• Global networking opportunities with activists and innovators.
• Access to low-bandwidth learning materials and session recordings.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: Must be between 18 and 30 years old.
• Location: Open to all nationalities globally.
• Commitment: Ability to dedicate approximately 4 hours per week for 12 weeks.
• Interests: Demonstrated focus on gender equality, youth leadership, advocacy, and social justice.

No coding or technical background is required, as the programme is designed for those with various levels of experience.

Required Documents

The application process requires the completion of the official online form. Applicants should be prepared to provide personal details, educational background, and written statements explaining their interest in gender equality and their motivation for joining the programme.

Application Timeline

• Application Deadline: July 28, 2026
• Programme Start: August 2026
• Programme End: October 2026

Selection Process

Applications are evaluated based on leadership potential, commitment to gender equality, interest in civic participation, and the relevance of the project a candidate intends to develop. Organizers aim to build a diverse and inclusive cohort from across the world. At least 70% of the total seats are reserved for young women and girls.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should follow these steps:

1. Review the programme requirements on the official application page.
2. Prepare your motivation statement regarding gender equality and civic engagement.
3. Complete the registration form before the July 28, 2026, deadline.

Pakistan-Specific Application Advice

For applicants from Pakistan, ensure your project ideas reflect local contexts of digital rights or social justice. Because the programme offers low-bandwidth learning materials and closed captions, it is accessible despite potential connectivity constraints. Emphasize your community impact and dedication to ethical AI to stand out during the selection phase.

Important Terms and Limitations

While the programme is accessible, it is taught in English. Participants are expected to engage with AI ethics, privacy, and bias mitigation, ensuring that all projects undergo a human rights review. As this is an online programme, stable internet access is recommended but not strictly required due to the low-bandwidth options provided.