SES Academy
Political Education for Young Muslims in Europe.
The SES Academy (abbr. of “Sosyal ve Siyasal Eğitim Semineri” – seminar for social and political education) is a two-year educational programme that helps young Muslims in Europe to develop political awareness, engage socially and take responsibility. Together with experts from politics, science and civil society, you will learn how, as a Muslim, you can contribute to democratic processes and use your voice effectively.
📅 Program duration: April 2026 – June 2028 (est.)
📍 Location: Cologne & various other cities across Europe
🕓Application deadline: 15 January 2026
What you learn
In more than 10 practice-oriented modules, spread over weekends and one-week winter and summer camps, you will develop the following key competences over two years:
Insight
Understand how politics, society, and media work.
Learn to recognize connections, gain orientation, and contribute in an informed and responsible way.
Voice
Find your voice – online and offline.
Learn how to formulate clear messages, understand debates, and make your concerns visible.
Connect
Build bridges between people and topics.
Discover how to build relationships, create trust, and bring together people from culture, religion, education, sports, and civil society.
Create
Turn ideas into real projects.
From the first idea to implementation: learn how engagement becomes practical, effective, and sustainable.
Participate
Take responsibility – for yourself, for others, and for society.
Learn how values, teamwork, and democratic principles work together and how you can help shape positive change.
Event Schedule
These are our upcoming seminars.
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11–12 April 2026
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13–14 June 2026
Colonia-Allee 3, 51067 Cologne
More →: Constitutions in Europe – Fundamentals & Current Challenges -
12–13 September 2026
About the Seminar Series
The programme consists of several modules, held at regular intervals over two years on weekends. Each seminar combines theoretical knowledge with practical application – complemented by exchange, mentoring and joint learning.
Who is the SES Academy for?
For young Muslims between 18 and 30 years old who want to actively shape their role in society. What matters is not what you already know – but that you are ready to make a difference.
📍 Start: 11–12 April 2026, Cologne
🕓 Registration until: 15 January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the aim of the SES Academy?
The aim of the SES Academy is to promote politically interested Muslim youth in Europe, deepen their knowledge of political structures and strengthen their societal participation. This should encourage young Muslims to contribute actively to their societies.
Who can participate?
Young people aged 18 to 30 years who speak English, Turkish and the language of their respective country very well. Participants are also expected to attend the seminars regularly.
How can I join the program?
The application process consists of two phases:
- Submitting your application via the online application form.
- A subsequent interview with applicants who have successfully passed the first phase.
As spots are limited, we can only accept a limited number of participants.
From which countries is participation possible?
Participation is possible from all European countries in which the IGMG youth or women’s youth organizations are represented.
Is participation subject to a fee?
No, participation in the seminar programme is free of charge.
How long does the programme last?
The programme runs over a period of two to three years.
How often do the seminars take place?
The weekend seminars (Saturday & Sunday) are held every two months. In addition, one-week winter and summer camps are organised.
What topics are covered?
Participants deal with topics such as:
- political systems in Europe
- constitutional frameworks, theories of democracy and religious freedom
- the relationship between Islam, religion and social participation
- religious, ethnic, cultural, ideological diversity and coexistence
- economy, environment and digitalisation
- the structures and tasks of the UN, the EU and national or local politics
In addition, practical workshops on rhetorical skills, project management and written expression are offered.
What is the process of the seminars?
Each weekend seminar begins with an introductory seminar by experts. Afterwards, participants work in country groups to deepen the respective topics in the European context – supported by specialists from the various countries.
Who are the sponsors of the project?
The project is carried out by the Islam Council for the Federal Republic of Germany (Islamrat für die BRD) and in cooperation with the IGMG youth and women’s youth organizations.
Do you have any other questions?
We’re happy to help.