The UNITAR Scholarship programme 2026-2027 in Japan is a fully funded capacity development programme for youth and women from Sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to transform innovative ideas into scalable, partnership-ready initiatives amid economic instability, enhancing public-private collaboration between Japan and Africa.
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) implements this programme with the support of the Government and People of Japan. It focuses on entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and sustainable development, culminating in an immersion experience in Hiroshima, Japan.
UNITAR Scholarship Benefits
- Participation is funded by the Government and the People of Japan
- Certificates of completion awarded for each phase
- Virtual learning with a limited in-person component in Japan for selected participants
- Mentorship from industry and ecosystem experts
- Exposure to innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems in Japan
- Networking with international partners, investors, and ecosystem actors
- Opportunity to showcase initiatives at a high-level Africa–Japan Innovation and Partnership Round Table
UNITAR Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Open to youth and women professionals aged 18–35
- Must be from Anglophone Sub-Saharan African countries: Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe
- Aspiring or early-stage entrepreneurs, SME founders, innovators, professionals, researchers, social entrepreneurs, or ecosystem builders
- Must have a clear project or business idea with implementation potential
- Demonstrate innovation, leadership potential, and commitment to community or economic development
- Openness to collaboration and partnership development
- Commitment to learning, mentorship, and long-term engagement
How to Apply for UNITAR Scholarship?
- Click the ‘Apply here’ button on the official UNITAR event page
- Complete the online application form with personal and professional details
- Submit the application before the deadline: 31 July 2026
- Selected candidates will be notified and proceed through competitive phases
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the UNITAR Scholarship 2026 in Japan. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the UNITAR Scholarship 2026 in Japan?
It is a fully funded capacity development programme for youth and women from Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on entrepreneurship, innovation, and public-private partnerships between Japan and Africa, culminating in an immersion in Japan.
Who can apply for the UNITAR Scholarship?
Youth and women aged 18–35 from Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe. Applicants should be aspiring entrepreneurs, SME founders, innovators, or professionals with a project idea.
What are the benefits of the UNITAR Scholarship?
The programme is fully funded by the Government of Japan. Benefits include virtual training, mentorship, exposure to Japanese innovation ecosystems, networking opportunities, and certificates for each completed phase.
What is the deadline to apply for the UNITAR Scholarship 2026?
The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026. All applications must be submitted through the official UNITAR event page before this date.
How long is the UNITAR programme?
The programme runs from August 2026 to March 2027, spanning 7 months across four phases: foundations, applied innovation, leadership engagement, and a final partnership round table.
Is the UNITAR Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, participation is fully funded by the Government and People of Japan. However, selected participants for the Japan immersion may be responsible for limited personal expenses.
What sectors are encouraged for applicants?
Sectors include agri-food innovation, AI and robotics, fintech, clean technologies, climate solutions, healthcare, sustainable cities, blue economy, creative industries, and social impact.
How are participants selected for the Japan immersion?
Selection for the in-person component in Japan is competitive, based on implementation potential, feasibility, partnership readiness, and impact. Not all programme participants will be selected.
What language is the programme conducted in?
The programme is conducted entirely in English. All training materials, mentorship sessions, and events will be in English.
How do I apply for the UNITAR Scholarship?
Visit the official UNITAR event page and click the ‘Apply here’ button. Complete the online application form with your details and submit before the deadline.
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