The SI Summer Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) 2024 – Apply Now

March 18, 2024

Apply now for the prestigious SI Summer Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) 2024, designed exclusively for individuals from the western Balkan countries. The SAYP is an intensive training program developed with the aim of enhancing awareness, capacity, and resilience in governance practices. It presents an opportunity to advance your career in modern governance structures.

SAYP 2024 offers diverse training modules, each focusing on critical aspects of governance and public administration. Some of the key topics covered in this year’s program include:

Perspectives on Multi-level Governance, Decentralisation & Human Rights
Sustainable e-Government for Resilient and Innovative Democratic Public Administration (SeGRID)
Migration and Integration in the Eastern Partnership and the Baltic Sea Region
Collaborative Governance in a Digital Era

SAYP 2024 Highlights

The SAYP 2024 is a collaborative initiative between the Swedish Institute and esteemed Swedish universities, offering participants a unique blend of academic rigor and practical insights. Throughout the program, participants will engage in a series of training modules hosted by renowned institutions.

Participants of SAYP 2024 will benefit from a range of enriching experiences, including:

Networking Opportunities: Engage with professionals from diverse backgrounds, expanding your contact network and fostering collaborations.
Knowledge Exchange: Share ideas, best practices, and challenges with like-minded professionals, gaining valuable insights and perspectives.
Skill Development: Enhance your abilities and expertise in key areas of governance, empowering you to make meaningful contributions to your field.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of Sweden, adding a unique dimension to your learning journey.

Benefits of Participation

Successful candidates selected for SAYP 2024 will enjoy the following benefits:

Free Participation: Access the program at no cost.
Meals and Accommodation: Receive full-board meals and comfortable accommodation throughout the duration of the program.
Travel Support: Benefit from travel assistance to and from Sweden.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for SAYP 2024, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Citizenship: Be a citizen of and currently employed in one of the following countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia.
Language Proficiency: Possess a good command of the English language, ensuring effective communication and collaboration during the program.
Education: Hold a relevant higher education degree of at least three years, demonstrating academic excellence and commitment to professional development.
Age: Be aged 35 years or younger at the time of application, reflecting the program’s focus on young professionals.
Employment Sector: Be employed in one of the following sectors: policymakers, public servants, or civil society workers, aligning with the program’s objectives.

Application Guide

Interested candidates can apply for SAYP 2024 by following these simple steps:

Select Training Module: Choose your preferred training module from the aforementioned list of available options
Submit Documents: Prepare and submit the required documents, including a motivation letter, letter of reference, curriculum vitae (CV), and English language certificate.
Rank Modules: If applying for multiple modules, prioritize your preferences to streamline the selection process.
Apply Online: Complete the online application form, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information provided.

For further details and inquiries about SAYP 2024, visit the official program website on https://si.se/en/apply/si-leadership-programmes/si-summer-academy-for-young-professionals-sayp-western-balkans/

Evaluation and Selection

Applications for SAYP 2024 will undergo thorough evaluation and selection by the participating universities. It is important to note that alumni of previous SAYP editions will not receive priority in the selection process.

Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting applications for SAYP 2024 is April 5, 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Cost of Participation?

Participation in SAYP is entirely free of charge, with all costs covered by the Swedish Institute, including meals, accommodation, and travel expenses.

What English Language Proficiency is required?

Applicants must have a minimum English proficiency level of 6 or Independent User B2, as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Can I apply if am currently working Abroad?

Citizens of eligible countries working or residing abroad are welcome to apply for SAYP 2024.

Am a Student can apply?

Only individuals employed in the specified sectors are eligible to apply, excluding students, volunteers, and interns.

The SI Summer Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) 2024 – Apply Now