By Ayomide Otitoju
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has opened applications for the next edition of its Young Reporters Programme, set to take place during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Senegal. Sixteen young journalists from around the world will be selected to participate in the immersive training initiative, designed to develop their skills in a live Games environment.
First introduced at the inaugural YOG in Singapore in 2010, the programme has trained 125 participants from 68 countries, many of whom have gone on to careers with the Olympic Games, major broadcasters, and leading news platforms.
A 2025 independent review led by Dr. Jessie Wilkie of the University of Canberra described the initiative as “a highly effective and supportive journalism training programme.” The study found that 63 percent of past participants have worked at the Olympic Games, while one-third have taken up roles with the IOC. Alumni widely credited the experience as “life-changing” in launching their careers.
The Dakar edition marks an evolution of the programme, incorporating recommendations from the review and 15 years of participant feedback. While retaining its emphasis on intensive mentorship, the revised format will include new elements such as a stronger focus on digital storytelling and social media.
Selected reporters will receive training from senior Olympic media professionals in print, photography, broadcasting, and online reporting. They will gain practical experience in press conferences, mixed zones, and event coverage, with their work published on IOC media platforms. Participants will also attend sessions with guest speakers from global outlets, and the top performer will be honoured with the Steve Parry Award.
Applications are open to journalists, photographers, and broadcasters aged 21–25 through Olympics.com
