19/08/2026
End-of- IYSS Classes Summary 2026.
The four-day classes in the International Youth Summer School have successfully come to an end. Marking an important milestone in equipping young people with knowledge, skills, and practical tools to become responsible leaders and agents of positive change in their communities.
Throughout the four days, participants actively engaged in four thematic areas: Peace and Conflict Management, Election Monitoring, Sexual/Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and Entrepreneurship. The sessions were designed to strengthen participants’ understanding of important social, civic, and economic issues while encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding, democracy, gender equality, and community development.
Peace and Conflict Management Class
The Peace and Conflict Management sessions provided participants with a deeper understanding of the causes and effects of conflict, as well as practical approaches to conflict prevention, management, and resolution. Participants explored the importance of dialogue, tolerance, communication, mediation, and peaceful coexistence.
The sessions also encouraged young people to recognise their role in promoting peace and preventing violence within their communities. By the end of the training, participants had gained valuable knowledge and practical skills that can help them become effective peacebuilders and advocates for peaceful societies.
Election Monitoring Class
The Election Monitoring sessions equipped participants with knowledge of the principles and responsibilities of election observation and monitoring. Participants learned about the importance of credible, transparent, peaceful, and inclusive elections, as well as the role young people can play in strengthening democratic processes.
The training enhanced participants’ understanding of electoral procedures, observation techniques, civic responsibility, and the importance of impartiality and accurate reporting. These lessons are expected to encourage participants to become more informed and responsible citizens who contribute positively to democratic governance.
Sexual & Gender-Based Violence Class
The Gender-Based Violence sessions provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of GBV, its different forms, causes, consequences, and the importance of prevention and response. Discussions focused on promoting respect, equality, dignity, and the protection of the rights of all individuals.
Participants were encouraged to challenge harmful social norms and attitudes that contribute to violence and discrimination. The sessions also emphasised the importance of awareness, reporting, support systems, and community action in addressing GBV.
Entrepreneurship Class
The Entrepreneurship sessions focused on empowering participants with the mindset and basic skills needed to identify opportunities, develop innovative ideas, and explore sustainable means of creating livelihoods. Participants were introduced to concepts such as entrepreneurship, business ideas, innovation, planning, financial awareness, and problem-solving.
The sessions encouraged young people to see themselves not only as job seekers but also as potential entrepreneurs and creators of opportunities within their communities.
A Successful and Engaging Four Days
Beyond the knowledge gained, the four-day programme provided participants with an opportunity to interact, exchange ideas, build networks, and learn from one another. The enthusiasm and active participation demonstrated throughout the classes reflected the participants’ strong interest in the issues discussed.
Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to acquire new knowledge and practical skills in areas that are directly relevant to their personal development and the future of their communities. Their positive engagement, questions, discussions, and participation in activities significantly contributed to the programme's success.
As the classes conclude, the International Youth Summer School leaves participants better equipped to promote peace, democracy, gender equality, entrepreneurship, and positive community development.
Peace Ambassadors The Gambia remains committed to investing in young people and creating platforms that empower them to become informed, responsible, and active agents of change.
The four days may have come to an end, but the learning, connections, and commitment to positive change must continue.
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