Are you a young professional from Eastern Europe with a passion for leadership, democracy and meaningful change? The Swedish Institute Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) 2025 offers you a golden opportunity to gain advanced training and build networks with other changemakers – all fully funded!
This prestigious training program is designed to develop the capacity of young professionals from the Eastern Partnership region to contribute to democratic governance and positive societal development. If you’re driven, dedicated, and ready to influence public policy or civic engagement in your country, this program is for you.
What is SAYP?
The Swedish Institute Academy for Young Professionals (SAYP) is a leadership training program organized by the Swedish Institute (SI) in partnership with top Swedish universities and institutions. It aims to build competencies in modern governance, leadership, transparency, inclusion, and EU integration through a unique blend of online and in-person learning.
Participants selected for SAYP will engage in high-level discussions, case studies, practical exercises, and collaborations with Swedish institutions and international peers.
Who Can Apply?
The SAYP 2025 program is open to young professionals aged 25–40 (born between 1985 and 2000) who are citizens of the following countries:
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Armenia
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Azerbaijan
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Belarus
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Georgia
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Moldova
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Ukraine
Note: Applicants from Azerbaijan, Belarus, and Georgia must be affiliated with a civil society organization or NGO.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SAYP 2025 program, you must:
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Be 25 to 40 years old at the time of application.
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Hold citizenship or permanent residency in one of the eligible countries.
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Have at least three years of higher education (Bachelor’s degree or more).
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Demonstrate a strong command of English (B2 level or above).
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Be currently employed in one of the following sectors:
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Public administration
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Government institutions
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Civil society or non-profit organizations
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Private sector (in some cases)
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Be ready and committed to implementing change in your organization, community, or sector.
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Not be a current student, intern, or volunteer.
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Not have participated in SAYP previously.
Available Training Modules
Each participant applies to one specific module, hosted by a Swedish university or organization. Modules are delivered as a mix of online learning and on-site workshops in Sweden or partner countries.
1. Halmstad University
Theme: Policy Integration and Transparency in a Digital Era
Online + On-site in Sweden
️ Duration: November 2025 – May 2026
✉️ Apply via: sayp_halmstad@hh.se
2. Malmö University
Theme: Participatory Governance and Inclusive Democracy
Online + On-site in Malmö & Chișinău
️ Duration: Early 2026
✉️ Apply via: sayp@mau.se
3. Stockholm School of Economics (SSE)
Theme: Leadership, Negotiation and EU Integration (ChangeLive)
Online + On-site in Stockholm
️ June 8–13, 2026 (on-site week)
✉️ Apply via: sayp2025@hhs.se
4. Fryshuset
Theme: Inclusive Leadership & Youth Empowerment
Online + On-site
️ January 2026 (start online), June 2026 (on-site)
✉️ Apply via: sayp@fryshuset.se
Other modules such as those focused on migration and integration, hosted by University of Gothenburg, may also be available.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
SAYP is a fully funded program that includes:
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✔️ All tuition and program-related costs
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✈️ Round-trip airfare to Sweden (or partner locations)
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Accommodation during on-site sessions
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️ Daily meals and local transportation
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Travel health insurance (varies by module)
You do not need to pay any fees to participate!
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | June 17, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | August 26, 2025 |
| Selection Period | August 27 – October 15, 2025 |
| Admission Results | By October 26, 2025 |
| Training Starts | Late 2025 to early 2026 (depends on module) |
How to Apply
Each training module has its own application email and specific documents. However, most require:
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A Europass CV
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A motivational letter
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A letter of reference from your employer or organization
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Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
Make sure to:
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Choose one or more modules that match your background and interests.
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Prepare your documents according to the module guidelines.
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Submit your application before August 26, 2025 to the module’s contact email.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in SAYP is more than just attending workshops — it’s about:
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Gaining international exposure and Swedish perspectives on governance.
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Building a network of peers from across the Eastern Partnership region.
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Learning practical tools to create change in your organization or community.
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Joining a global alumni community of professionals working for positive development.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t miss this chance to level up your leadership and policy skills while exploring one of the most progressive countries in the world – Sweden. If you’re a committed professional with a desire to lead positive change in Eastern Europe, SAYP 2025 is your opportunity to shine!