The Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) is thrilled to announce the launch of the Global Digital Pathways Program, a transformative and fully sponsored initiative designed to provide 500 refugees and vulnerable youth with access to world-class digital, professional, and leadership education through fully funded Coursera courses.
This groundbreaking program aims to eliminate the barriers that refugee and marginalized youth often face in accessing quality global education. Through this initiative, RYCM seeks to empower young people with the tools, confidence, and competitive skills needed to thrive in the fast-evolving global digital economy.
About the Program
The Global Digital Pathways Program opens the door to globally recognized certification, high-quality online learning resources, and career-building opportunities. By providing full sponsorship to Coursera’s curated education pathways, the program ensures that refugee youth gain valuable skills that can directly enhance their employability—both locally and internationally.
This initiative is not just about learning; it’s about creating lifelong pathways to opportunity, encouraging leadership, innovation, and resilience for young people navigating difficult circumstances.
What Selected Learners Will Receive
Every participant accepted into the program will receive:
1. Fully Sponsored Coursera Access
Get access to high-quality online learning programs and courses at no cost.
2. Choice of One Learning Pathway to Begin
Learners can choose from six structured pathways tailored to different career and skill-building goals.
3. Online Study for Up to 4 Months
Each pathway is designed to be completed comfortably over a four-month period, allowing flexibility for learners.
4. Coursera-Certified Badges & Certificates
Earn globally recognized certificates that boost employability and skill credibility.
5. Customized RYCM x Coursera Certificate of Learning
Showcase your achievement with an exclusive co-branded certificate.
6. Access to Mentorship, Career Guidance & Opportunities
Participants may be guided toward internships, remote work opportunities, community projects, or entrepreneurship pathways.
7. Eligibility to Join Another Pathway
Once the first pathway is completed within 4 months, learners qualify to enroll in an additional pathway, maximizing growth and learning potential.
This structure allows youth to learn at their own pace while gradually building advanced digital and professional skills.
Available Learning Pathways
The Global Digital Pathways Program offers six carefully curated educational tracks that address modern career demands and community empowerment needs:
1. Tech & Software Development Pathway
Ideal for learners interested in programming, app development, and foundational software engineering skills.
2. Creative & Professional Skills Pathway
Perfect for those passionate about content creation, digital design, professional communication, and creative industries.
3. Digital Foundations for Refugees & Vulnerable Youth
A beginner-friendly track that introduces essential digital skills—no prior experience required.
4. Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation Pathway
For aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators who want to launch small businesses or community projects.
5. Foundations for Global Digital Careers (Software & Web)
Focused on global tech jobs, including web development, remote work readiness, and beginner-friendly tech career essentials.
6. Leadership, Communication & Community Empowerment
Designed for youth who wish to build strong leadership, advocacy, and community mobilization skills.
These pathways are strategically crafted to equip learners with diverse, high-demand skills aligned with modern digital careers and leadership roles.
Eligibility Requirements
The Global Digital Pathways Program is open to:
Youth residing in Africa or individuals who identify as Africans living in other parts of the world
Priority is given to:
- Refugees
- Asylum-seekers
- Vulnerable youth connected to RYCM or partner organizations
Individuals willing to commit at least 4 months
You must be ready to dedicate time to complete your chosen learning pathway.
Basic access to digital tools
Applicants must have:
- A smartphone, laptop, or tablet
- Internet connectivity for online learning
No prior experience is needed for the Digital Foundations Pathway
Beginners are fully supported.
Learners can only start one pathway at a time, and it must be fully completed within 4 months before they can register for another one.
Why This Program Matters
For many refugees and vulnerable youth, access to quality education and professional development opportunities is often limited. The Global Digital Pathways Program bridges this gap by:
- Providing world-class digital education for free
- Strengthening global career readiness
- Opening doors to remote and freelance job opportunities
- Building leadership capacity within communities
- Encouraging creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation
- Empowering youth to become changemakers in their regions
This initiative supports long-term self-reliance, resilience, and economic participation—key steps toward building stable futures and stronger communities.
The RYCM Global Digital Pathways Program is more than an educational opportunity—it is a lifeline and a launchpad. By offering sponsored access to Coursera’s best learning pathways, the program gives refugee youth the chance to grow, earn valuable global certifications, and unlock new opportunities in tech, business, leadership, and creative industries.
If you are a refugee or vulnerable youth eager to build your skills, expand your career prospects, and participate in meaningful community-driven growth, this program is for you.
Take the step—your digital future begins now.
How to Apply
- Visit the Application Page:
Click the “Apply Now” button on the RYCM website to open the official online application form. - Fill Out the Application Form:
Enter your personal details, motivation, and select the pathway you want to start with. - Submit Your Application:
Your submission will be reviewed based on motivation, readiness, and the availability of the 500 program slots. - Receive Confirmation & Onboarding:
Selected learners will receive an email or message with program instructions and their Coursera access link. - Begin Your Learning Journey:
Start your pathway immediately, follow the study guide, and complete your program within the required 4-month period.
Duration & Completion
- 4 months maximum for each selected program
- Learners must complete their first pathway before joining another
- Coursework is self-paced, with flexible weekly schedules
- Support from RYCM mentors and peer groups will be available
Program Certification
All learners who successfully complete their chosen pathway will receive Coursera Verified Certificates and Digital Badges, awarded directly through Coursera’s global learning platform. Because the courses are created by world-renowned universities and industry leaders such as Google, Meta, IBM, Yale, and top international institutions, their certificates hold high professional value. These badges are globally recognized and can be added to LinkedIn, CVs, résumés, and job applications to clearly demonstrate verified skills that employers trust.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) Global Digital Pathways Program