Tánaiste launches Global Ireland Young Leaders Programme for Transition Year students
- Published on: 1 February 2024
- Last updated on: 12 April 2025
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin has today announced the launch of the Global Ireland Young Leaders Programme, an initiative designed to inspire independent and creative thinking among secondary school students about Ireland’s role in the world.
The programme, aimed at Transition Year students, will provide a unique opportunity for young people to engage with Ireland’s foreign policy. Selected entrants from around the country will be invited to spend a number of days at the Department of Foreign Affairs, where they will have the opportunity to meet with Ministers, staff, Embassy teams and Ireland’s civil society partners.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin said:
“It is vitally important for young people to understand the world they are growing up in and Ireland’s role in it. Young people in Ireland are hugely engaged with global issues. The Global Ireland Young Leaders Programme offers a unique opportunity to get a practical insight into the workings of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs.
“By meeting with senior Irish officials, Ambassadors from countries around the world and our civil society partners, participants will see how decisions are made that shape Ireland’s place in the world. Ireland has a proud record of contributing at a global level. This programme will help to inspire the next generation to continue that enormously important work.”
To mark the 50th anniversary of Irish Aid, the government’s development aid programme, students are invited to submit written or video essays reflecting on theme of “The Future of Irish Aid” as part of their applications.
Minister of State for Overseas Development and Diaspora Sean Fleming said:
“Marking 50 years of Irish Aid is an opportunity to reflect on the enormous impact Irish people have had around the world. It is also an opportunity to take stock of the challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.
“The world is changing and we want to hear from young people about how they see Ireland contributing in the future. What are the big issues they want Ireland to engage on? How will issues such as climate change or technology affect development and humanitarian aid? I look forward to engaging with the leaders of tomorrow through the Global Ireland Young Leaders Programme.”