Applications are now open for the Echidna Global Scholar Program 2026, a prestigious fully funded visiting fellowship hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at the Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.
This six-month fellowship is designed to empower leaders and researchers from developing countries who are passionate about promoting gender equality in and through education. Fellows will spend two months working remotely from their home country, followed by four months in residence at Brookings in Washington, D.C.
Through mentorship, research, and policy engagement, the program equips participants with the tools to drive transformative educational change across the Global South.
Program Overview
- Host Country: United States
- Institution: Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.
- Host Organization: Center for Universal Education (CUE)
- Duration: 6 months (2 months remote + 4 months in Washington, D.C.)
- Program Type: Visiting Fellowship
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
Benefits of the Echidna Global Scholar Program
The fellowship offers complete financial support, ensuring participants can focus on research and impact:
- Monthly Stipend (subject to U.S. taxes)
- Single-occupancy housing for four months in Washington, D.C.
- Round-trip travel expenses covered
- Health insurance (limited coverage)
- Visa support provided
- Networking opportunities with global policymakers and scholars
Program Structure & Responsibilities
- Pre-Residency (2 Months): Work remotely from your home country to define your research goals.
- Residency (4 Months): Conduct research, write policy papers, and engage with the Brookings community in Washington, D.C.
- Capacity Building: Participate in workshops and leadership development programs.
- Post-Residency: Implement a project that applies your research findings in your home country.
- Professional Networking: Collaborate with experts in global education and development policy.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Echidna Global Scholar Program, applicants must:
- Be citizens or residents of countries in the Global South.
- Hold at least a Master’s degree in education, gender studies, development, public policy, economics, or related fields.
- Have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience.
- Demonstrate a strong passion for improving education and life outcomes for girls, young women, and gender-diverse individuals.
- Applicants new to the gender equality field are welcome—just explain how you intend to integrate it into your future work.
How to Apply
The application process is entirely online. Interested candidates should carefully review the program details and eligibility requirements before applying.
Check other opportunities:
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