The Centre's youth programmes and activities are based on the ECOWAS Strategic Action Plan on Youth, adopted by the Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS at their 35th Summit held in Abuja, Nigeria, on 19 December 2008.

This policy aims to empower young people and promote their involvement in all areas of society. It also aims to guarantee every young person (men and women) the possibility of reaching their full potential as an individual and an active participant in the development and regional integration of ECOWAS.

The objectives of the CDJS/ECOWAS Youth Programme are:

• Increase the employability of young people in the ECOWAS region
• Promote youth entrepreneurship
• Improve and diversify youth training modules
• Support young project holders in seeking financing
• Help young people become self-employed.
• Volunteers Programme.