Hey future changemakers! Are you passionate about making a real difference in education, especially for girls, young women, and gender-nonconforming people in the Global South? Then you absolutely need to hear about the incredible Echidna Global Scholars Program for 2026! This isn’t just any bursary; it’s a fully-funded opportunity to become a global leader at the renowned Brookings Institution in Washington D.C., USA. Get ready to amplify your impact and shape the future of gender-transformative education!
The Echidna Global Scholars Program is designed for visionary leaders like you, who are already making strides in gender-transformative education. During this six-month fellowship, you’ll conduct in-depth research, sharpen your leadership and policy skills, deepen your knowledge on critical global education issues, and build an incredible network. Think of it as a launchpad for even greater impact, both locally and globally. Once you complete the fellowship, you’ll join the powerful Echidna Alumni Network, a community dedicated to creating sustained change in education worldwide.
Who Can Apply?
Are you wondering if this amazing opportunity is for you? Here’s the lowdown on who the Echidna Global Scholars Program is looking for:
- You should be a mid-career leader with a proven track record and a deep commitment to improving learning and life outcomes for girls, young women, and gender non-conforming people in and through education in the Global South.
- You must have substantial experience in, strong ties to, and a clear intention to return to a country in the Global South.
- Academically, you’ll need a Master’s degree (or higher) in education, development, public policy, economics, or a related social sciences or humanities field.
- Professionally, they’re looking for 10+ years of experience in research/academia, non-governmental, community, or civil society organizations, or government roles.
- You should have an intimate understanding of education development issues and gender.
- Collaboration is key! You need to be able to work well with others, be open to feedback, and be eager to learn with speed and flexibility.
- Lastly, strong proficiency in English is a must.
What Does It Cover?
Alright, let’s talk benefits! This program is pretty comprehensive:
- Generous Stipend: You’ll receive a stipend totaling $26,500 USD to support your living costs during both the pre-residency and residency periods (just a heads-up, this is subject to U.S. tax withholding and reporting).
- Fully Funded Fellowship: Beyond the stipend, the program fully supports your research, leadership development, networking, and opportunities to publish and disseminate your work on Brookings’ platforms.
- Three Phases of Growth:
- Pre-residency (in your home country): You’ll kick off intensive data collection and analysis with virtual workshops and advisory sessions. You’ll also start developing your impact strategy and engaging local stakeholders from your home country.
- Residency (in Washington, D.C.): This is where you expand your reach! You’ll focus on publication and dissemination of your research, build capacity for strategic impact, develop your leadership, and network like crazy. This phase culminates in a virtual symposium.
- Post-residency (back home): For two years after, the CUE team provides targeted support as you implement your impact plans, leveraging everything you learned and all the connections you made.
How to Apply?
Ready to take the plunge? Here’s exactly how to apply for the Echidna Global Scholars Program:
All applications must be submitted through the official iCIMS application system. Initial application materials must include:
- A CV or resume which should include your education and professional experience, as well as a list of your publications, and any fellowships, honors, awards, funded research, or foundation support that you have received.
- The completed Echidna Global Scholars Program Application which includes both a written questionnaire and a research proposal. Important: You must click on the hyperlink on the official webpage (linked below) to access this document and then upload it in the “Writing sample” section of the iCIMS system.
What NOT to include: Note that letters of recommendation, additional writing samples, and transcripts are NOT required.
Key Dates to Remember:
- Application deadline: 15 December 2025
- Interviews: January and February 2026
- Selection date: 6 March 2026
- Acceptance date: 20 March 2026
- Fellowship start date: 15 June 2026
For all the official details and to access the application document, make sure to visit the official webpage:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Echidna Global Scholars Program
If you’re a passionate leader in gender-transformative education in the Global South and this incredible opportunity speaks to your soul, don’t just sit there—get your application in before the deadline! This is your chance to make a monumental impact. Apply now and keep an eye on Bursaries Room for even more fantastic bursary opportunities!
