Call for Applications Now Open!
Are you a young changemaker passionate about the future of digital governance in West Africa? The West African Youth Internet Governance Forum (WAYIGF) invites youth innovators, activists, students, and digital enthusiasts to apply for the WAYIGF 2025 Policy Hackathon — a regional challenge designed to spark collaborative, youth-led solutions to today’s most pressing Internet policy challenges.
About the Policy Hackathon
Under the theme “Shaping a Resilient, Inclusive, and Safe Digital Future for West Africa,” this year’s hackathon will convene dynamic youth teams to develop innovative policy concepts on issues such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance.
- Digital rights and inclusion.
- Online safety and cybersecurity.
- Trustworthy and ethical digital public infrastructure.
This isn’t just another competition. It’s a platform for impact. Participants will get the opportunity to work in teams, receive expert mentorship, and present their policy ideas to a panel of regional and global stakeholders.
Event Details
📅 Hackathon Period: April 28 – May 14, 2025
🌍 Format: 100% Virtual – Participate from anywhere in West Africa.
👥 Team Composition: 2 to 4 members (only one team lead should submit the form).
🏆 Top Awards: Winning teams will receive special recognition, mentorship opportunities, and a Policy Recommendations Spotlight — with their solutions featured and shared with ECOWAS and its member states.
Whether you’re studying, working in tech or policy, or simply care about the Internet’s future in your country — this is your chance to collaborate, innovate, and be heard.
Why Join?
Strengthen your skills in Internet governance and digital policy.
Collaborate with peers from across the ECOWAS region.
Get feedback from global Internet governance experts.
Win prizes, internships, and a chance to present at the WAYIGF 2025 main forum.
Who Can Apply?
- Youth aged 18 to 35 living in West African countries.
- Individuals or teams with interest in digital rights, innovation, or Internet governance.
- Students, young professionals, civil society actors, or developers are all welcome!
Note: Only one team representative should submit the application on behalf of the team.
How to Apply
Complete the Policy Hackathon Application Form by the deadline.
Be sure to include:
- Team and member information.
- Motivation for joining the hackathon.
- Your thematic area of interest.
- A short description of your initial idea (optional).
🕐 Application Deadline: April 21, 2025
Contact Us
For inquiries, please email: info@waigf.org
Follow us for updates: @waigf_official on social media
