The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) launched the 4th edition of its Leadership Training in Peace and Security (LTIPS) Program during an opening meeting held on Wednesday, April 16, 2026, via videoconference, with the participation of representatives from previous cohorts and newly enrolled candidates from several countries across the Islamic world and beyond.

The meeting marked the induction of 45 new Youth Ambassadors for Peace from 41 countries, a step that expands the program’s network and reinforces its standing as a key initiative aimed at preparing young people to play effective roles in promoting peace and stability. The meeting also served as an orientation and networking platform, enabling new candidates to familiarize themselves with the program’s objectives and practical pathways and to benefit from the experiences of previous cohorts.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Ramata Almamy Mbaye, Head of the Social and Human Sciences Sector, affirmed that the Organization continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering youth and engaging them in peace and sustainable development issues, noting that equipping young people with leadership, dialogue, and collaborative skills is a fundamental pillar in addressing current challenges.

She added that the launch of this new edition brings the total number of program network members to 227 Youth Ambassadors for Peace from 81 countries, reflecting the initiative’s growing reach and impact. She also explained that the designation of 2024 as ICESCO Youth Year forms part of a broader strategic vision that positions youth as key partners in shaping the future and fostering the values of peace and development.

For his part, Mr. Alioune Ndiaye, Head of Peace Division at ICESCO, reviewed the program’s organizational and operational aspects, including its structure, objectives, code of conduct, and operational framework, with a view to enabling candidates to understand their responsibilities as Youth Ambassadors for Peace.

The session concluded with an interactive exchange among candidates, during which they shared introductions and experiences, while representatives of the three previous cohorts presented testimonials highlighting the program’s impact in building a growing international youth network.