Echidna Global Fellowship Offers Fully-Funded $26,500 Stipend

The Center for Universal Education at Brookings is now accepting applications for its 2026 Echidna Global Scholars Program. This prestigious fellowship aims to develop leaders who will improve education for girls and young women in the Global South. The deadline for submissions is December 15, 2025.

The program selects mid-career professionals for a comprehensive six-month fellowship. It focuses on creating tangible change through research and policy development.

Fellowship Structure and Leadership Development

The fellowship is divided into three distinct phases. It begins with a pre-residency period in the scholar’s home country.

During this initial phase, scholars collect data and begin their research. They participate in virtual workshops and advisory sessions to build their leadership skills.

The residency phase brings scholars to Washington, D.C. for four months. Here, they focus on disseminating their research and expanding their professional networks.

According to Brookings Institution program details, scholars learn to communicate research effectively to policymakers. This training helps them create greater impact in their home countries.

The final phase provides two years of post-residency support. Alumni receive targeted help to implement their impact plans locally.

Program Benefits and Global Impact

Selected scholars receive substantial financial and logistical support. The program offers a $26,500 stipend to cover living expenses during the fellowship period.

Additional benefits include visa processing support and single-occupancy housing in Washington, D.C. The fellowship also covers round-trip travel and provides health insurance.

The program’s long-term goal is to strengthen education systems in the Global South. It empowers local leaders to drive policy changes that benefit marginalized groups.

Previous alumni have implemented significant education reforms in their home countries. Their work has directly improved learning opportunities for thousands of girls and young women.

The Echidna Global Scholars Program represents a critical investment in gender equality education leadership worldwide. This unique fellowship continues to build a powerful network of change-makers dedicated to transforming educational outcomes.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is eligible to apply for the Echidna Global Scholars Program?

Applicants must be from the Global South with at least ten years of professional experience. They need a Master’s degree and substantial background in education, development, or public policy. Proficiency in English is required.

What does the fellowship provide to selected scholars?

The program offers a $26,500 stipend and covers housing during the Washington residency. It also includes travel expenses, health insurance, and visa processing support. These benefits help scholars focus entirely on their research and leadership development.

How long is the Echidna Global Scholars fellowship?

The core fellowship lasts six months, including four months in Washington D.C. Scholars then receive two years of post-residency support. The entire program commitment spans approximately two and a half years.

What type of research do scholars conduct during the fellowship?

Scholars develop research projects focused on improving education for girls and young women. Their work addresses specific challenges in their home countries. The research aims to create practical policy recommendations.

When is the application deadline for the 2026 program?

All applications must be submitted by December 15, 2025. The selection process occurs in early 2026. The fellowship itself begins later in 2026.