Global Digital Pathways Program

Refugee Youth Changemakers (RYCM) is proud to launch the Global Digital Pathways Program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip 500 refugees and vulnerable youth with globally competitive digital, professional, and leadership skills through fully sponsored access to Coursera.

This program opens the door to high-quality online learning, globally recognized certification, and new livelihood opportunities—enabling young people to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

About the Program (Overview)

The Global Digital Pathways Program provides fully funded access to a curated selection of six learning pathways, each designed to build strong digital capabilities, entrepreneurial thinking, global career readiness, and community leadership.

Each accepted learner will:

  • Choose one learning pathway to start with
  • Study online for up to 4 months
  • Earn Coursera-certified badges and certificates
  • Receive a customized RYCM x Coursera Certificate of Learning
  • Access career-building opportunities and guidance
  • Qualify to join another pathway upon completing the first one

 

This initiative is created to remove barriers to digital education and connect refugee youth with skills that genuinely improve employment prospects locally and globally.

Program Details

Learners will choose one of the following pathways for their first learning cycle:

1. Tech & Software Development Pathway

Build fundamental and advanced tech skills of coding and web development to app creation and software engineering. Best for Tech gurus.

2. Creative & Professional Skills Pathway

Develop practical skills for the modern workplace, including digital design, communication, creative tools, project management, and professional soft skills.

3. Digital Foundations for Refugees & Vulnerable Youth

This pathway focuses on digital literacy, computer use, online tools, and essential ICT skills needed to function effectively in a digital way.

4. Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation Pathway

Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs. Learn how to develop business ideas, manage finances, market a business, and build sustainable ventures.

5. Foundations for Global Digital Careers (Software & Web)

Train for global digital jobs and the remote-work economy. Learn web development basics, global digital standards, and work-readiness skills.

6. Leadership, Communication & Community Empowerment

Designed for current and aspiring community leaders. Master communication, leadership, advocacy & community empowerment.

Program Benefits

  1. Fully Paid Access to Premium Coursera Content: Learners receive complete, free access to Coursera’s high-quality courses, professional certificates, and learning tools. This includes video lessons, quizzes, assignments, and downloadable materials. You gain world-class education at no cost, accessible anytime with a phone or computer.
  2. Coursera Digital Badges & Globally Recognized Certificates: Every completed course earns the learner a verified digital certificate backed by top global institutions. These badges can be added to CVs, LinkedIn, and job applications to showcase your new professional skills. They help you stand out to employers both locally and internationally.
  3. Custom RYCM x Coursera Certificate of Learning: Graduates receive a specially designed certificate co-issued by Refugee Youth Changemakers and Coursera. This certificate demonstrates commitment, consistency, and achievement across the chosen learning pathway. It strengthens applications for jobs, scholarships, internships, and leadership roles.
  4. Structured 4-Month Guided Learning Journey: Each learner follows a clear, supported roadmap to finish their program within four months. You receive guidance, weekly check-ins, and recommended study schedules to keep you on track. This structure ensures you progress steadily, even with busy personal or community responsibilities.
  5. Opportunity to Join Additional Pathways After Completion: Once you complete your first pathway, you become eligible to enroll in any of the remaining pathways. This allows motivated learners to build multiple skill sets across technology, business, leadership, and digital careers. Over time, you can grow into a more versatile and competitive digital professional.
  6. Career and Opportunity Support: Learners receive help translating their new skills into real opportunities. This includes support in CV writing, LinkedIn setup, digital portfolio creation, and navigating job platforms. You gain practical guidance on applying for internships, digital jobs, entrepreneurship programs, and more.
  7. Access to a Strong Community of Changemakers: Participants join a vibrant network of refugee youth, mentors, alumni, and partners committed to learning and growth. This community offers motivation, collaboration, peer support, and shared solutions to learning challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

The Global Digital Pathways Program is open to:

  1. Youth that reside in Africa or they identify as Africans living else where in the world. Priority is given to Refugees or vulnerable youth connected to RYCM or partner communities.
  2. Individuals willing to commit at least 4 months to complete their chosen pathway
  3. Applicants with basic access to digital tools (smartphone, laptop, or tablet) and internet connectivity
  4. Motivated learners who want to improve their skills, pursue career opportunities, or contribute to community development
  5. Youth who can confidently participate in online learning environments

 

No prior digital experience is required for the Digital Foundations pathway. Learners can only choose one program of study which must be completed within 4 months before they enroll on another program.

How to Apply

  • Visit the Application Page:
    Click the “Apply Now” button on the RYCM website to open the official online application form. The deadline for the first round of applications of Phase 1 is Monday, 24th November, 2025 at 1:00PM Rwanda Time.

  • 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.

In addition to Coursera’s credential, every graduate receives a custom RYCM x Coursera Certificate of Learning, confirming their achievement and commitment to completing an official pathway in the Global Digital Pathways Program. This combination of certificates strengthens applications for digital jobs, internships, entrepreneurship funding, innovation challenges, scholarships, and leadership opportunities. 

About Coursera.
Coursera is one of the world’s leading online learning platforms, offering high-quality courses, professional certificates, and degree programs created by top universities and global industry leaders such as Google, IBM, Yale, Meta, Stanford, and more. Trusted by millions of learners worldwide, Coursera provides flexible, accessible, and industry-relevant training that helps people gain real skills for real careers. Its certificates are globally recognized and valued by employers, making it a powerful pathway to digital jobs, professional growth, and lifelong learning. Learn more about Coursera

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