UN Tanzania launches Youth Masterclass Series to strengthen youth engagement

Dar es Salaam, 28 August 2026 – The United Nations in Tanzania has launched the UN Youth Masterclass Series, a new platform connecting young people with practical knowledge, skills and expertise from across the UN system.

The inaugural masterclass brought together 50 young people selected from nearly 500 applicants. Participants were selected based on their motivation and areas of interest, with attention to gender representation.

Powered by UNESCO Dar es Salaam, the first session focused on media and information literacy, artificial intelligence and responsible digital participation. It was held at the UN House in Dar es Salaam.

Participants explored how rapid changes in communication technologies and artificial intelligence are shaping the way people access, create and share information.

Maxence Melo, CEO and Founder of JamiiAfrica and JamiiForums, led discussions on the evolution of communication technologies and the growing influence of artificial intelligence. Participants examined misinformation, fact-checking and online safety, including practical ways to verify information before sharing it.

The discussions went beyond online risks, highlighting the opportunities digital platforms can offer young people. Participants explored how they can use these platforms to access education, employment, internships, scholarships, business opportunities and professional networks.

For many participants, the session offered both practical knowledge and an opportunity to reflect on their own role in creating safer and more constructive digital spaces.

“The sessions have given me new knowledge and perspectives on media and information literacy, AI and responsible digital participation. I am truly grateful for this opportunity.” Radhia Deus, participant

Another participant reflected on the responsibility that comes with being an informed digital citizen: “What am I doing with the knowledge I have to make the digital space better for others?”

Through Her Lens Africa highlighted the value of connecting the discussions with practical work:

“The Masterclass brought together young people to learn, share ideas and understand how we can use media and digital platforms in a more responsible way. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn, connect with other young people and take these lessons into my work through storytelling and visual media.”

Participants also shared lessons from the masterclass on their social media platforms, extending the conversation to their wider networks and communities.

Promoting safer and more inclusive digital spaces

The masterclass addressed online and technology-facilitated violence, including risks faced by young women and girls.

The discussions contributed to wider efforts under Tanzania’s National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children II to promote safer and more inclusive spaces, including online.

Hamisa Mobetto participated in the session and committed to supporting UNESCO’s campaign for safer and more inclusive digital spaces, particularly for young women and girls.

One platform, expertise from across the UN system

The UN Youth Masterclass Series will provide a common platform for UN agencies, funds and programmes in Tanzania to engage directly with young people on issues related to their mandates and areas of expertise.

Each masterclass will be powered by one or more UN entities. UNESCO Dar es Salaam led the inaugural session, drawing on its expertise in media and information literacy, digital citizenship and online safety.

Future sessions will bring expertise from other UN agencies, funds and programmes and will focus on issues relevant to young people in Tanzania.

By working through a coordinated platform, UN entities can combine technical expertise, partnerships, outreach networks and resources while giving young people a clear and consistent channel through which to learn from and engage with the United Nations.

The strong response to the inaugural masterclass, with nearly 500 applications for 50 places demonstrated the level of interest among young people in opportunities to learn directly from experts, exchange perspectives and build practical skills.

Through the UN Youth Masterclass Series, the United Nations in Tanzania will continue to create opportunities for young people to learn, connect and contribute, while placing their experiences, questions and priorities at the centre of its engagement.