Applications are now open for the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026. Young researchers from Africa and other eligible regions can receive up to US$10,000 to conduct postgraduate research in Japan for up to nine months. Apply by 30 September 2026.

UNESCO Opens Applications for the 2026 Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme

Young researchers seeking international research experience now have an exciting opportunity to advance their academic careers through one of UNESCO’s most prestigious fellowship programmes. Applications are officially open for the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026, also known as the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships Programme.

Supported by the Government of Japan, this long-running initiative provides talented researchers from eligible countries with the opportunity to undertake postgraduate research at leading universities and research institutions in Japan. The programme aims to strengthen research capacity, encourage international collaboration, and support innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

For the 2026 cycle, UNESCO and Japan will award 10 fellowships to outstanding young researchers working in fields related to heritage conservation, artificial intelligence, climate action, sustainable development, and social innovation.

The application deadline is 30 September 2026.

About the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme

Established in 2001 through the Japanese Funds-in-Trust for Capacity Building of Human Resources, the fellowship programme honors the legacy of former Japanese Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi.

Over the past two decades, the programme has supported nearly 300 researchers from more than 100 countries, helping them conduct high-quality research while building international academic networks.

The fellowship is designed to promote knowledge exchange and strengthen global cooperation in areas that align closely with UNESCO’s mission of advancing education, science, culture, communication, and sustainable development.

Selected fellows will conduct research in Japan under the supervision of academic experts and institutions that match their research interests.

Research Areas for the 2026 Fellowship Cycle

UNESCO is inviting proposals that contribute to global knowledge and sustainable development across several priority themes.

Applicants must choose one primary research area that aligns with their proposed study.

The 2026 research themes include:

1. Heritage Conservation and Management

Research focused on protecting, preserving, and managing cultural and natural heritage resources.

2. AI for Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Climate Action

Projects exploring how artificial intelligence can support environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, and resource management.

3. Ethical, Inclusive and Human-Centred AI for Sustainable Development

Studies examining responsible AI development, governance frameworks, ethics, inclusion, and social impacts.

4. AI for Sustainable Cities, Infrastructure and Societal Resilience

Research investigating smart cities, resilient infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and urban sustainability.

5. AI and Education

Projects exploring the role of artificial intelligence in improving educational access, quality, innovation, and learning outcomes.

The programme particularly encourages interdisciplinary research that combines technology, sustainability, governance, ethics, and social impact.

Fellowship Benefits

The UNESCO/Japan Fellowship provides significant financial support to enable researchers to focus on their projects while in Japan.

Selected fellows may receive funding of up to US$10,000.

The grant may be used to cover:

Medical insurance is compulsory and arranged by UNESCO.

The fellowship period can last between three and nine months, depending on the approved research project.

Research stays are expected to begin from February 2027 onwards and must be completed by December 2027.

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship targets highly qualified young researchers who demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to advancing knowledge in UNESCO priority areas.

Applicants must:

• Be nationals of one of the eligible countries invited to participate.
• Be 40 years old or younger at the time of application.
• Hold at least a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification relevant to their proposed research.
• Demonstrate strong academic and research capabilities.
• Have sufficient language proficiency to undertake research at their chosen Japanese institution.
• Obtain formal acceptance from an academic supervisor at a Japanese university or research institution before applying.

Eligible Countries

The programme is open to applicants from numerous countries across Africa, Small Island Developing States, Türkiye, Ukraine, and selected nations in other regions.

For African applicants, all 47 UNESCO Member States in Africa are eligible, including:

• South Africa
• Zimbabwe
• Botswana
• Namibia
• Zambia
• Kenya
• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Uganda
• Tanzania
• Rwanda
• Ethiopia
• Mozambique
• Senegal
• Malawi

and many others.

Why This Fellowship Stands Out

Unlike many traditional scholarship programmes, the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowship focuses heavily on producing impactful research that addresses global challenges.

Successful fellows gain:

International Research Experience

Researchers work within Japan’s world-class academic environment and access cutting-edge research facilities.

Global Academic Networks

Participants build relationships with scholars, institutions, and experts from around the world.

Professional Development

The programme enhances research, analytical, and leadership skills while expanding international exposure.

Contribution to Global Challenges

Research projects are expected to generate practical insights and innovative solutions that support sustainable development goals.

Application Process

Applicants should carefully follow UNESCO’s official application process.

Step 1

Review the official Application Guide and eligibility requirements.

Step 2

Contact the National Commission for UNESCO in their home country to understand local nomination procedures.

Step 3

Prepare all required documentation, including:

• Completed application form
• Research proposal
• Academic transcripts and qualifications
• Recommendation letter
• Language proficiency certification
• Acceptance letter from a Japanese host institution

Step 4

Submit the application package to the National Commission for UNESCO in the applicant’s country.

Step 5

If nominated by the National Commission, candidates must submit the required online documentation to UNESCO.

Step 6

National Commissions must forward nomination packages to UNESCO by the official deadline.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of experts from UNESCO and the Government of Japan.

The evaluation will focus on:

• Academic excellence
• Research quality
• Innovation and originality
• Relevance to UNESCO priorities
• Potential impact of the proposed research

Final selections will also consider diversity and gender balance.

Application Deadline

Researchers interested in applying should begin preparing their applications as early as possible, particularly because securing acceptance from a Japanese supervisor can take time.

Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

With only ten fellowships available worldwide, competition is expected to be strong. Early preparation and a well-developed research proposal will be essential for success.

For ambitious researchers seeking international experience, academic growth, and the opportunity to contribute to global solutions, the UNESCO/Japan Young Researchers’ Fellowships Programme 2026 offers an exceptional pathway to advance both their research and professional careers.

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