UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme (UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme) ·Unknown

UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme (UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme)

Application Deadline: 30 September 2026 (midnight Paris time)

About the Programme

The UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme, established in 2001 and funded by the Government of Japan, supports young researchers to strengthen their research capacity and promote international collaboration.

For the 2026 cycle, 10 fellowships will be awarded to outstanding candidates from Africa, Small Island Developing States, Ukraine, and Türkiye. Selected fellows will carry out postgraduate research in Japan, focusing on key global development themes.

Fellowship Overview

• Grant: Up to US$10,000
• Duration: 3 to 9 months
• Host Country: Japan
• Fellowship Period: From February 2027 (latest completion: December 2027)

Research Areas

Applicants must select one primary research area:

• Heritage Conservation and Management
• AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action
• Ethical, Inclusive and Human-Centred AI
• AI for Sustainable Cities and Resilience
• AI and Education

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a national of an eligible country (Nigeria included)
• Be 40 years or younger
• Hold at least a Master’s degree
• Show strong academic and research potential
• Demonstrate language proficiency for study in Japan
• Secure acceptance from a Japanese academic supervisor

What the Grant Covers

• Travel (international and local)
• Accommodation
• Medical insurance (mandatory)
• Living expenses (meals, transport, etc.)
• Research-related costs

Note: Tuition fees, equipment purchase, and most conference costs are not covered.

How to Apply

1. Review the Application Guide and required documents
2. Contact your country’s National Commission for UNESCO
3. Prepare all documents (application form, proposal, references, etc.)
4. Submit to your National Commission at least 2 weeks before the deadline
5. If nominated, send documents to UNESCO
6. Final submission must be completed by 30 September 2026

Application Link