UYIGF 2026- Calling All Youth to Shape the Future of AI & Internet Governance
The Uganda Youth Internet Governance Forum (UYIGF) 2026 is scheduled to take place on July 28, 2026 at the National Innovation Hub, Nakawa. The forum seeks to attract all Ugandans under 30, from university students and young professionals to secondary school innovators, who are passionate about technology and digital governance. Join us to share your ideas and help define the future of the internet.
Why UYIGF 2026 Matters
While young people are the primary drivers of digital innovation, they are often excluded from the policy decisions that shape the internet. UYIGF 2026 seeks to bridge this gap, moving youth from being mere digital consumers to actively contributing to the development of policies and digital platforms. Hosted by the Internet Society Uganda Chapter (ISOC Uganda) in partnership with the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU), this year’s forum puts Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the center of the conversation. As AI transforms everything from content regulation to digital rights, it is critical that young Ugandans lead the conversation. UYIGF 2026 provides the platform to ensure youth perspectives are integrated into the governance of these emerging technologies. A core component of this year’s forum is the prize-winning hackathon, where teams will develop prototype solutions addressing pressing internet governance challenges in Uganda. Whether you’re focused on AI ethics, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, or data protection—this is your chance to ideate, create, and present.UYIGF Objectives
The UYIGF 2026 is designed to:- Build Capacity: Equip youth with expertise in AI policy, digital governance, and rights.
- Amplify Voices: Provide a platform for youth perspectives to reach national and global policy-makers.
- Nurture Leadership: Identify the next generation of digital leaders through hands-on engagement.
- Drive Innovation: Develop tangible, prototype solutions to real-world internet challenges.
- Promote Equity: Actively bridge the digital gender gap by empowering girls and young women in tech.
What to Expect
- Insightful Panel Discussions: Engage with experts on the front lines of Uganda’s digital landscape. Challenge assumptions, ask the tough questions, and explore the ethics of AI.
- The Hackathon Finals & Awards: Watch innovation in real-time as teams present solutions to internet governance challenges. Top prototypes win prizes and fast-tracked incubation support to turn ideas into reality.
- Networking & Mentorship: Connect with fellow changemakers, government representatives, and private sector leaders to build professional relationships that last.
Who Should Attend?
We are looking for 60 dynamic individuals under the age of 30, including:- Students: From all disciplines—Law, Business, Tech, Social Sciences, and more.
- Professionals: Young leaders in media, policy, civil society, or government.
- Innovators: Secondary school students with a proven passion for technology.
- Advocates: Leaders of youth organizations and community groups.
What You’ll Gain
By joining the UYIGF movement, you will:- Become a recognized voice in Uganda’s digital agenda.
- Influence global policy through submissions to the UN Global Digital Compact.
- Develop practical solutions with the support to scale them.
- Gain a certificate of participation and access to a nationwide network of champions.