Conference Programme
Three days in Windhoek (August 5–7, 2026): Research Indaba, forums & engagements, and official opening, closing & culture night
Program Schedule
A comprehensive three-day program of learning, engagement, and action in Windhoek.
Day 1: Research Indaba III
Evidence for Action — Youth-Led Research shaping Policy and Practice
- Setting the Stage, Opening Remarks & The Evidence Engine
- Youth-led abstract presentations across all 5 conference tracks
- Evidence to Action Plenary — translating research into regional realities
- Poster presentations & keynote: Evidence, Leadership and Legacy
- Launch of the SARSYC V Research Volume (2nd edition)
- Celebrating Evidence Excellence — awards for top oral presentations
Day 2: Forums & Engagements
Confronting suicide, substance use & sexual health challenges facing adolescent boys and young men — from keynote to the Young Men's Call to Action.
Advancing education equity, digital safety & healthy lifestyles for adolescent girls and young women, closing with the Young Women Call to Action.
Transforming evidence and dialogue into coordinated regional action — featuring the GEAR Alliance Impact Showcase and Alliance Spotlight.
Youth advocacy presentations and policy panels with parliamentarians and partners, capped by a high-level ministerial keynote.
An evening intergenerational dialogue (closed meeting) culminating in the signing of the SARSYC VI Youth Health and Education Accountability Compact.
Day 3: High-Level Engagement & Culture Night
High Level Engagement Platform | Official Ceremony
Official ceremony with anthems, SARSYC's twelve-year journey, UNESCO and Society for AIDS in Africa addresses, reading of the Windhoek Declaration by the Youth Steering Committee, and a SADC Parliamentary Forum reflection — From Gaborone to Windhoek.
University of Namibia choir interlude, keynote by the Governor of Khomas Region, and a Vote of Thanks from the Vice Chancellor of the University of Namibia.
Cultural dress showcase, Sixteen Nations One Movement opening, Unity in Diversity keynote, traditional performances, then dinner, music and networking.
Culture Night Highlights
Southern African music, dance, and arts