The UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship on Leadership for Peace and Sustainability 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded international fellowship designed to empower young Indian leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to promote peacebuilding, social innovation, and sustainable development.
Hosted by the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), a specialized institute of UNESCO, this immersive fellowship will take place at the Humanitas College of Kyung Hee University in South Korea from June 25 to July 4, 2026.
This highly competitive programme brings together a select cohort of Indian youth to engage in critical discussions, experiential learning, and collaborative problem-solving around global challenges such as conflict resolution, digital transformation, and sustainable development.
About UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship
The UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship is an action-oriented programme that integrates education, leadership, and global citizenship. It is rooted in UNESCO’s broader mission of fostering peace through education and empowering young people to become changemakers in their communities.
The fellowship uses real-world case studies from the Asia-Pacific region to help participants understand complex global challenges and develop innovative solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Fellowship Overview
Key Programme Details
- Fellowship Dates: June 25 – July 4, 2026
- Location: Humanitas College, Kyung Hee University, South Korea
- Mode: Fully in-person immersive programme
- Application Deadline: April 25, 2026 (11:59 PM IST)
Participants will be required to attend all sessions physically, making it a deeply engaging and collaborative experience.
Objectives of the Fellowship
The programme is designed with clear and impactful objectives that align with global development priorities.
Core Objectives
- Develop Leadership for Peace and Sustainability
- Equip youth with the skills to address global and local challenges
- Promote values of peace, inclusion, and sustainability
- Build Future Changemakers
- Strengthen leadership capacity among Indian youth
- Prepare participants for impactful careers
- Create a Strong Global Network
- Connect fellows with like-minded peers
- Foster long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange
What Participants Will Learn
The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Key Learning Areas
- Peacebuilding and conflict transformation
- Digital technology and social innovation
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Leadership and critical thinking
- Global citizenship and ethical decision-making
Participants will engage in:
- Interactive workshops
- Case study analysis
- Group discussions
- Reflective learning sessions
Fellowship Benefits
The UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship is fully funded, ensuring that selected participants can focus entirely on learning and collaboration.
Financial and Logistical Benefits
- International travel costs covered
- Visa expenses covered
- Accommodation provided
- Meals during the fellowship covered
This comprehensive support removes financial barriers and ensures equal access for all selected participants.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is specifically targeted at young Indian leaders who demonstrate potential and commitment to social impact.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be under 30 years of age at the start of the fellowship
- Be a citizen of India and currently residing in India
- Have completed an undergraduate degree before the programme begins
- Be proficient in English
- Be available to attend the fellowship in person in South Korea
Inclusivity Commitment
The programme strongly encourages applications from:
- All genders
- Diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds
- Persons with disabilities
This reflects UNESCO’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Clarity of thought and vision
- Ability to connect past experiences with future aspirations
- Alignment with the fellowship’s objectives
- Demonstrated interest in peace and sustainability
Application Process
Applicants must follow the Official Application procedure.
Important Instructions
- Applications must be submitted through the Official Online Form
- Applications sent via email will not be accepted
- All required information must be completed accurately
Applicants are encouraged to carefully prepare their responses to demonstrate their motivation and potential impact.
Why You Should Apply
This fellowship offers a transformative opportunity for young leaders to:
- Gain international exposure in South Korea
- Learn from global experts and practitioners
- Develop leadership and problem-solving skills
- Build a global network of changemakers
- Contribute to peacebuilding and sustainable development
Learn more about the UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship on Leadership for Peace and Sustainability 2026 HERE.
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