The Youth in Digital Health Network (YiDHN), created by the Africa CDC, is all about empowering young innovators in healthcare. It focuses on how Africa’s youth can transform healthcare systems and push for Universal Healthcare coverage. This platform helps young people build skills, connect with others, and engage in policy discussions to improve digital health across the continent.
One exciting part of YiDHN is the Youth Digital Health Champions (Y-DHC) program. This initiative finds and showcases young leaders in digital health. These champions will inspire others, promote innovations, and influence healthcare policies. The goal is to create a strong network that can impact healthcare practices across Africa.
To apply, candidates must be aged 18 to 35 and a citizen of an African Union member state, including those in the diaspora. Fluency in at least one of several key languages is also necessary. Applicants should be actively involved in digital health, whether through innovation, research, policy development, or capacity-building initiatives.
Selection focuses on three main areas:
- Leadership and Initiative (45%): Applicants should show leadership in digital health projects, demonstrating creativity and resilience.
- Impact and Innovation (25%): Those who have made significant contributions to digital health solutions are favored.
- Motivation and Potential for Growth (30%): Candidates should express a strong desire to engage in future YiDHN activities.
Becoming a Youth Digital Health Champion comes with several perks:
- Visibility: Champions will have their stories highlighted through YiDHN and Africa CDC channels, raising their profile.
- Networking: Participants can connect with a diverse community of digital health advocates for collaboration.
- Training and Skill Development: Champions will get exclusive invites to workshops and training sessions to boost their skills.
- Support for Innovation: The initiative aims to provide access to funding and mentorship opportunities for young startups in digital health.
This program runs for 12 months, offering a rich experience for those involved. Candidates must submit their application by September 14, 2025, which should include a CV and a letter of recommendation.
The call for applications opens on August 29, 2025, with selected candidates announced by September 20, 2025.
For more information, check out [Africa CDC Youth](https://www.africacdc.org/) or contact them at YouthProgramme@africacdc.org.
Recent data shows that the youth demographic in Africa is the fastest-growing in the world, making their involvement in healthcare critical. According to a 2023 report by the United Nations, around 60% of Africa’s population is under 25 years old. Their engagement in digital innovations could play a major role in shaping the future of health services across the continent.