The Next Level Skills for Student Leaders (NELS) programme is an ambitious virtual training initiative that equips student leaders with the knowledge, skills, and global perspectives needed to drive positive change in higher education and beyond. Co-developed by a network of higher education institutions and student unions, including the Global Student Forum, NELS brings together elected student representatives and engaged learners from across Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa in an intercultural learning environment.
NELS strengthens the foundations of democratic student representation by fostering a culture of active citizenship rooted in freedom, tolerance, and non-discrimination. Participants sharpen their leadership abilities, critical thinking, media literacy, and communication skills, which are essential tools for navigating an increasingly complex educational and social landscape.
A modular programme for the next generation of changemakers
The NELS programme runs across three interlinked modules:
- Future Challenges
Exploring global megatrends, the digital transformation of education, and sustainability in higher education. - Next Level Skills
Strengthening inclusive leadership, virtual communication, and facilitation practices for diverse student communities. - New Ways of Student Organising
Examining values in higher education, democratic governance, and transnational networking.
Each semester includes 10 interactive online sessions held in small, peer-led groups. Students receive tailored mentorship, hands-on learning, and the opportunity to earn micro-credentials (ECTS) as formal recognition of their participation.
Why it matters
NELS is more than a training programme. It is a platform for collaboration across borders and a space to imagine the future of student leadership together. By connecting student leaders from different regions and contexts, NELS builds mutual understanding and shared strategies for improving higher education systems and student rights worldwide.
Programme timeline
- Launch of Module 1: Future Challenges – September 2025
- Launch of Module 2: Next Level Skills – September 2025
- Launch of Module 3: New Ways of Student Organising – September 2025
The project will run from February 2025 to January 2028, with new cohorts joining each semester.
Funding
The NELS project is funded by the European Union.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union or the EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible.
