DNS Academy Policy Track

Module 2 emphasizes understanding ICANN communities, multistakeholder engagement, and policy basics, with a focus on how to apply these in Uganda. Fellows take ISOC Learn courses such as Internet Policy Fundamentals, Digital Footprints, and Privacy, which provide practical insights for shaping local policy frameworks. ICANN Learn courses include Policy Development Fundamentals (500), Get to Know the GNSO (502), and at least one stakeholder onboarding course, such as ccNSO (150), ISP (151), IPC (152), GAC (153), At-Large (154), or Business Constituency (155), helping fellows understand how global stakeholder structures influence local policy. DNS Academy masterclasses during this module focus on policy issues relevant to Uganda, including DNSSEC adoption, Universal Acceptance, and DNS abuse, while also practicing how to advocate policy recommendations locally. Fellows attend ICANN Meeting 1, connecting global discussions to Uganda’s context and submitting a reflection report that highlights local policy takeaways. By the end of Module 2, participants will understand stakeholder dynamics, global policy mechanisms, and how to translate international policy discussions into actionable advocacy in Uganda.

Module 3 focuses on applied policy skills and active contribution. Fellows deepen their understanding of DNS policy development, while practicing local policy advocacy. Optional ISOC Learn courses include Encryption, Internet Security, and Disability Leadership Training in Internet Governance, providing advanced tools for local and global policy engagement. ICANN Learn courses include ICANN Policy Development Processes (503), ICANN Policy Development: A Guide for At-Large Participants (506), Registrant Basics (302), and optional RAA Training (601). DNS Academy masterclasses include PDP simulation exercises, policy drafting workshops, and discussions on applying global DNS policies in the Ugandan digital environment. Fellows participate in ICANN Meeting 2 (Policy Forum), submitting a policy brief with a local perspective, demonstrating their ability to translate global policy frameworks into Uganda-specific recommendations. By the end of Module 3, fellows will be able to analyze, discuss, and influence policy, both globally and locally.

The final module develops leadership and advocacy skills, enabling fellows to champion DNS policies in Uganda while contributing globally. Fellows attend DNS Academy masterclasses on leadership, advocacy strategies, and community engagement, culminating in a capstone project — a policy brief, research note, or community advocacy report that demonstrates their ability to influence DNS policy locally. During ICANN Meeting 3 (Annual General Meeting), participants actively engage in sessions, network with global policy leaders, and apply their learning to international discussions. By the end of Module 4, fellows have practical experience, local and global policy outputs, and leadership skills, earning the DNS Academy Policy Fellowship Certificate.