Introducing The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (the Award) is a Non-Formal Education and Learning framework supporting young people to find their purpose, place and passion in the world.

In more than 120 countries, the Award, having a globally recognised accreditation, is available to all 14 to 24-year-olds, inclusive of all backgrounds, locations, cultures and abilities. 

The Award in Mauritius started in 1966 by two volunteers from England, Mary Gold Humpries and Trevor Smith. In 1978, a Gold Award Holders’ Association was founded and Regional Award Committees were set up to extend the programmes’s reach in all districts including the Rodrigues. The Award is known locally as The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Mauritius.

Across the globe, the Award is delivered through Operating Partners, IACs and registered Award Centres that are sub licensed by NAOs. In Mauritius, the license holder to operate the Award is the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Recreation. The Award Office manages the operation of The Award in the Republic of Mauritius. The Patron of The Award is HE The President of the Republic of Mauritius.

Throughout the Award, every youngster becomes part of something special while developing their individual interests, universal skills and life ambitions.

Founded in 1956, the Award highlights the value of Non-Formal Education and Learning. Today there are consistently over a million young people taking on the Award’s challenge to believe in the power of their potential, make a difference in their community and take control of their future.

Learn more about the Award History here:

The Award Framework

The Award comprises three levels and four sections, providing a well-rounded structure focused on personal development and challenges. Additionally, achieving the Gold level necessitates completing a Gold Residential Project.

Levels

Sections

Bronze

Silver

Gold

Skills

Physical Recreation

Voluntary Service

Adventurous Journey

Gold Residential Project

Setting 'SMART' Goals

Establishing realistic and achievable goals is vital for participants to engage in purposeful and challenging activities. Vague goals fail to motivate participants to commit to or complete a section. Thus, the Award Leader plays a crucial role in assisting participants in setting appropriate goals. This process should involve consultation with the relevant subject matter expert, typically the Activity Coach or Assessor, for the chosen activity