The Africa-Europe Youth Academy (AEYA) is an initiative led by the consortium Expertise France and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, within the framework of the European Union’s Global Gateway Strategy. It is endowed with a €15 million budget.

The AEYA embodies a strong ambition: offering African youth the keys to civic leadership, local innovation, and contribution to sustainable development.

The launch ceremony was held in the presence of:

• The Senegalese Minister of Youth and Sports, Mrs. Khady Diène Gaye,
• The Ambassador of France to Senegal, Mrs. Christine Fages,
• The Ambassador of Italy to Senegal, Mrs. Caterina Bertolini,
• The Regional Director of AICS, Mr. Giovanni Grandi,
• Mrs. Séverine Peters-Desteract from Expertise France,
• Mr Amaury Hoste, representative of the European Union Delegation in Senegal,
  as well as young African members of the AEYA Advisory Board.

The 48-month programme, concluding in January 2029, aims to work hand in hand with local stakeholders through a co-construction approach with communities, strengthening the capacities of vulnerable youth across rural areas, disadvantaged neighborhoods, and regions exposed to climate challenges.

It places civic and innovative youth leadership at the heart of its objectives, amplifying young people’s voices in governance.

The official launch event was a unique networking opportunity, but also a chance to gain a better understanding of this programme, which places African youth - especially from 20 Sub-Saharan African countries - at the center of development and Africa–Europe relations.

As Alexandre Zoumman shared: “I am convinced that this initiative will help create networks of young innovators, local transition models, and lasting bridges between Africa and Europe. I look forward to seeing the first concrete achievements emerge and to supporting this dynamic in our territories.”

 

Dakar, Senegal, 30 September 2025
Alexandre Zoumman alexandre.zoumman@asaf.africa
Edited by the Erasmus+ Support Service Team