After six months of training, mentoring and the implementation of civic projects, KAS organised the closing workshop of its Youth Civic Education Programme in Bouaké from 7 to 9 July 2026. The event marked the culmination of a learning journey designed to strengthen the capacities of young leaders in civic education, leadership, advocacy and participation in public life. Over the course of three days, participants consolidated their knowledge, exchanged experiences and presented civic initiatives developed during the programme. Based on a participatory approach, the workshop combined presentations, case studies, practical exercises, group work and project presentations to encourage interaction between beneficiaries and experts.
The first day, facilitated by Dr William Agblonon, focused on the theme: “Influencing Public Policies: What Levers of Action for Citizens and Civil Society Organisations?”. Participants deepened their understanding of the public policy cycle and explored key advocacy tools that enable citizens and organisations to contribute to public decision-making. A case study on promoting civic education as a national priority in Côte d’Ivoire helped identify concrete avenues for action, followed by a workshop dedicated to developing action plans to enhance the impact of civic initiatives.
The second day, led by Marc Daubrey, focused on ensuring the sustainability of civic initiatives. Discussions highlighted the key factors behind successful and lasting projects, including sound design, effective organisational structures, institutionalisation, partner mobilisation and sustainable funding strategies. Participants then refined their projects and presented them to receive feedback and recommendations.
The third day, facilitated by Dr Alama Silué, was devoted to applying the lessons learned to participants’ own projects. The young leaders analysed challenges related to the implementation of their initiatives and identified solutions tailored to their specific contexts. The day also provided an opportunity to evaluate the six-month programme, gather participant feedback and consolidate the skills acquired throughout the training. These included public policy analysis and influence, advocacy, civic communication, project management, stakeholder mobilisation, fundraising, sustainability planning and ethical leadership. The workshop concluded with presentations of the action plans developed by the participants, demonstrating their commitment to putting their newly acquired skills into practice for the benefit of their communities.
Through this initiative, KAS reaffirms its commitment to promoting active and responsible citizenship and to supporting the emergence of a new generation of leaders dedicated to democratic governance and the development of Côte d’Ivoire.