This workshop is a YSI Africa Working Group special project designed as a multi-format, interactive gathering, the event aims to elevate the voice of young scholars in shapingAfrica’s economic trajectory, with Nigeria standing as an important pivot.
This event provides a unique platform for early-career economists, students, and young researchers to showcase their work, engage with senior mentors, and build lasting connections within Nigeria-Africa economic policy and research ecosystem. It’s not just a conference — it’s a launchpad for ideas, collaboration, and long-term engagement.
What to Expect at the Event
-
Opening Session: Introduction to YSI Africa in Nigeria and the goals of the event.
-
Keynote Address: A leading economist will speak on the role of youth in transforming Nigeria and Africa’s economy.
-
Young Scholar Spotlight: Selected participants present their research or policy ideas.
-
Thematic Networking Circles: Rotating breakout groups focused on key economic themes, led by YSI facilitators and mentors.
-
YSI Showcase: Learn about YSI’s global clusters, opportunities for involvement, and upcoming initiatives.
-
Open Mic & Project Matchmaking: Pitch your project, research, or idea and find collaborators.
-
Informal Networking: Enjoy refreshments while meeting fellow participants, speakers, and potential partners.
Key Themes
The event will focus on timely and transformative themes
This workshop is a YSI Africa Working Group special project designed as a multi-format, interactive gathering, the event aims to elevate the voice of young scholars in shapingAfrica’s economic trajectory, with Nigeria standing as an important pivot.
This event provides a unique platform for early-career economists, students, and young researchers to showcase their work, engage with senior mentors, and build lasting connections within Nigeria-Africa economic policy and research ecosystem. It’s not just a conference — it’s a launchpad for ideas, collaboration, and long-term engagement.
What to Expect at the Event
-
Opening Session: Introduction to YSI Africa in Nigeria and the goals of the event.
-
Keynote Address: A leading economist will speak on the role of youth in transforming Nigeria and Africa’s economy.
-
Young Scholar Spotlight: Selected participants present their research or policy ideas.
-
Thematic Networking Circles: Rotating breakout groups focused on key economic themes, led by YSI facilitators and mentors.
-
YSI Showcase: Learn about YSI’s global clusters, opportunities for involvement, and upcoming initiatives.
-
Open Mic & Project Matchmaking: Pitch your project, research, or idea and find collaborators.
-
Informal Networking: Enjoy refreshments while meeting fellow participants, speakers, and potential partners.
Key Themes
The event will focus on timely and transformative themes, including:
-
Digital Economy & Innovation – Exploring the opportunities and challenges of Africa and Nigeria’s growing digital sector and gig economy.
-
Climate Economics & Just Transitions – Understanding how economic policy can drive equitable climate action in Nigeria.
-
Informal Labor Markets & Youth Employment – Addressing the structural barriers to job creation and inclusive growth.
-
Development Finance & Local Solutions – Investigating how local innovations can bridge economic gaps and drive sustainable development.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with these topics through presentations, group discussions, and project collaboration.
Who should attend
-
Undergraduate and graduate students in economics, development, and related fields
-
Early-career researchers and academics
-
Policy and data enthusiasts
-
Social innovators working on economic or development projects
-
Members of university-based research clubs and think tanks
-
Anyone interested in economic transformation, youth development, and innovation in Nigeria and Africa
Why You Should Participate
If you are a young scholar, researcher, or student passionate about economic transformation, this event offers:
-
A chance to present your research or ideas to a national audience.
-
Opportunities to connect with senior economists, policymakers, and academics.
-
Entry into YSI’s global network of young thinkers and researchers.
-
Project matchmaking sessions to help you find collaborators, co-authors, or even mentors.
-
Access to thematic circles and cluster groups to deepen your knowledge and expand your network.
Whether you’re building your career, refining your research, or seeking real-world impact, this event creates space for you to be seen, heard, and supported.