Application Deadline:
15 December 2025
About Organisation
The Brookings Institution, based in Washington, D.C., is a globally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to conducting high-quality, nonpartisan research to improve policy and governance at all levels. For over a century, Brookings has been shaping public policy debates through rigorous scholarship, open-minded inquiry, and a commitment to evidence-based solutions. Its Center for Universal Education (CUE) focuses on transforming education systems worldwide to ensure equitable and inclusive access to quality learning for all young people, regardless of background. CUE collaborates with educators, policymakers, youth, and communities to advance research, create practical tools, and promote dialogue that fosters adaptive, responsive, and inclusive education. Through its programs, CUE aims to empower learners, strengthen education leadership, and build systems that equip every child with the skills needed to thrive in a fast-changing global environment.
About the Grant
The Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026, hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at Brookings, empowers local education leaders from the Global South working to advance gender-transformative education. This six-month fellowship enables scholars to conduct original research, enhance leadership and policy advocacy skills, and build global networks for long-term impact. Scholars focus on improving learning opportunities and life outcomes for girls, young women, and gender-nonconforming individuals. The fellowship comprises three phases: a pre-residency for research and stakeholder engagement in scholars’ home countries; a residency at Brookings in Washington, D.C., for research dissemination, leadership development, and networking; and a post-residency phase supporting implementation of impact strategies over two years. The program fosters a strong alumni network dedicated to promoting equitable and inclusive education systems. Since 2012, it has supported 44 scholars from 25 countries, driving global change in education and gender equality.
Who can Apply?
The fellowship is open to mid-career professionals from the Global South who demonstrate leadership and a strong commitment to advancing gender-equitable education. Applicants must have substantial experience in education, development, or public policy, along with a Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field such as education, economics, social sciences, or humanities. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in academia, government, NGOs, or civil society organizations is required. Applicants must possess a deep understanding of gender and education development issues and a clear intent to return to their home country after the fellowship to implement their impact strategies. Strong collaboration skills, openness to feedback, adaptability, and proficiency in English are essential. Candidates must submit a cover letter, CV, a completed questionnaire, and a 3–5 page research proposal outlining a project aimed at improving learning outcomes and life opportunities for girls, young women, and gender-nonconforming people in their local context.
How to Apply?
Applications for the 2026 Echidna Global Scholars Fellowship are open until December 15, 2025. Interested candidates must submit an online application including a cover letter, CV, questionnaire, and a 3–5 page research proposal focused on gender-transformative education. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all materials align with program objectives and eligibility criteria.
Application Deadline
The final deadline for submitting applications to the Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 is December 15, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted for consideration.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
