NEBE Provides Training for Youth Volunteers

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) provided training for youth volunteers as part of its preparations for the 7th general election. This initiative was led by the Civic and Voter Education (CVE) department of the NEBE in collaboration with Regional Branch Offices. Training sessions took place in various regions, including Oromia, Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Harari, Afar, Somali, South Ethiopia, South West Ethiopia, Sidama, Central Ethiopia, as well as in Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa City Administration, engaging a total of 775 youth volunteers in voter education and election campaigning.

The training covered essential topics, including the significance of volunteerism, civic and voter education, the similarities and differences between the two concepts, methodologies and principles of education, identifying target groups, democratic systems, citizen participation, the election cycle, and stakeholder engagement. The department has

previously offered similar training for other volunteers, including those from universities.

NEBE aims to mobilize volunteers across various constituencies for the 7th general election, providing voter education during the voter registration period and on election day. It is believed that these volunteers will raise awareness among citizens about the importance of voting based on informed knowledge and promote the use of the digital voter registration option.