The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) in partnership with the International Secretariat for Water (ISW) has announced the launch of the third Call to Action for the 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge (1MYAC).
This global initiative aims to harness the innovative energy of young people aged 18 to 35 to develop projects that address some of the most pressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For youths in Ghana and across West Africa, this competition presents a remarkable opportunity to contribute to sustainable development while gaining recognition, funding and technical support to turn ideas into impactful actions.
Focusing on Critical SDGs with Local and Global Relevance
The 1MYAC challenge encourages young innovators to propose projects aligned with SDG 6, SDG 12, SDG 13 and SDG 15.
These SDGs encompass essential aspects of environmental sustainability such as ensuring access to clean water and sanitation, promoting responsible consumption and production, combating climate change and protecting terrestrial ecosystems.
The initiative’s emphasis on these goals resonates strongly with the challenges faced by West African nations, including Ghana, where issues such as water scarcity, environmental degradation, plastic pollution and climate resilience are increasingly urgent.
For youths in Ghana and neighboring countries, this challenge offers an avenue to develop solutions that are not only innovative but also tailored to local contexts. Projects could include sustainable water management systems, eco-friendly waste management practices, renewable energy solutions, or community-based conservation initiatives.
The focus on local impact ensures that the projects have the potential to bring tangible benefits to communities, fostering resilience and sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Opportunities for Sustainable Youth-Led Projects
The 1MYAC challenge stands out because it explicitly encourages projects that contribute to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Notably, the 2025 priority themes include Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Plastic Pollution Reduction, which are particularly relevant to West Africa.
The region experiences frequent climate-related disasters, such as floods and droughts, which threaten livelihoods and food security. Plastic pollution also poses a severe threat to land and water ecosystems, impacting both biodiversity and human health.
Young entrepreneurs and changemakers in Ghana can leverage this opportunity to develop innovative solutions that tackle these pressing issues. For example, youths could design community-based early warning systems for disasters, develop biodegradable packaging alternatives or establish recycling cooperatives that create jobs and reduce plastic waste.
Such projects not only align with SDG targets but also have the potential to generate scalable solutions that could be adopted across the region.
Funding and Support to Turn Ideas into Action
One of the most attractive aspects of the 1MYAC challenge is the provision of funding and technical assistance. Selected projects can receive up to 5,000 CAD (~2,900 CHF), which can be instrumental in covering startup costs, materials or pilot program expenses.
Beyond financial support, participants will also gain access to technical guidance, mentorship, and capacity-building resources, empowering them to implement their ideas effectively.
This support structure is designed to nurture innovative solutions from conception to execution, ensuring that youth-led projects are sustainable and impactful. For young entrepreneurs in Ghana, this means an opportunity to turn creative ideas into practical solutions that address local challenges while gaining international exposure.
Successful projects could serve as models for broader regional initiatives, amplifying the impact and fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders.
Eligibility and Application Details
The 1MYAC challenge is open to youth worldwide, with a specific focus on projects that promote sustainability, climate resilience and environmental protection. Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old and demonstrate a clear plan to implement their proposed project within their community or region.
The application process involves submitting a detailed project proposal outlining the idea, expected impact, implementation plan and sustainability strategy.
The deadline for submission is 15 August 2025, providing ample time for interested youths to develop compelling proposals. Applicants are encouraged to showcase innovative approaches, scalability and how their project aligns with the SDGs and regional priorities.
Successful applicants will not only receive funding and support but also gain recognition on a global platform, amplifying their impact and inspiring others to take action.
A Call for Action for West African Youths
The 1MYAC challenge exemplifies how youth-led initiatives can drive meaningful change in Ghana and West Africa. By focusing on sustainable projects that address climate change, water scarcity, pollution and land degradation, young people have the power to influence policy, transform communities and contribute to global sustainability efforts.
This competition offers a unique pathway for West African youths to showcase their creativity, leadership and commitment to environmental stewardship. It encourages innovative thinking, fosters community engagement and provides the necessary resources to turn ambitious ideas into tangible solutions.
As regional challenges become more complex, empowering youth to lead the way becomes not just beneficial but essential for sustainable development.
In conclusion, the 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge represents a vital opportunity for young people in Ghana and the wider West African region to contribute to a more sustainable future.
With a clear application deadline of 15 August 2025, aspiring young changemakers should seize this moment to develop projects that can make a difference. Through innovation, collaboration and dedication, West African youths can help address critical environmental challenges while gaining the recognition and support needed to scale their impact globally.
