Deadline: March 4, 2026
The Ban Ki-moon Foundation Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2026 is now open for applications! This prestigious initiative offers young changemakers across Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia the opportunity to gain world-class training and resources to implement impactful projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This hybrid scholarship combines virtual learning with a hands-on summer school experience, empowering participants to become effective global citizens committed to driving sustainable change.
About the Ban Ki-moon Foundation Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2026
The Global Citizen Scholarship is an initiative by the Ban Ki-moon Foundation, aimed at empowering young leaders to actively address global challenges within their local contexts. The programme is designed to help participants conceptualise and implement SDG-focused projects that contribute to their communities’ development.
The 2026 edition of the scholarship offers an 8–9 month hybrid learning experience, combining online sessions, interactive mentorship, and an in-person summer school component. Participants will benefit from an enriching curriculum that covers leadership, global citizenship, and sustainable development.
Programme Timeline
- Application Deadline: 4 March 2026 (23:55 CET)
- Programme Start: April 2026
- Duration: 8–9 months (virtual training + summer school)
Eligible Countries
The Ban Ki-moon Foundation Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2026 is open to passionate young leaders aged 20–35 years from the following regions and countries:
Africa: Cameroon, Ethiopia, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe
Middle East: Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
South Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Laos, Philippines, Vietnam
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Global Citizen Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries listed above.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Be aged between 20 and 35 years.
- Hold at least a Master’s degree or be in the final year of a Master’s programme (exceptional candidates may be considered).
- Possess a minimum English proficiency level of B2 (according to the European framework).
Applicants should show motivation, leadership potential, and a clear interest in creating a measurable social impact within their communities.
Programme Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive learning experience, professional guidance, and seed support to launch their own SDG-focused projects. Benefits include:
- 8–9 months of virtual training and mentorship, focusing on leadership, sustainability, and project management.
- Participation in a 2-week international summer school at the Management Center Innsbruck (MCI) in Austria.
- Workshops and expert-led sessions on innovation, communication, and community engagement.
- Peer mentoring and global networking opportunities with changemakers from diverse backgrounds.
- Seed funding (approximately €500) to support the implementation of participants’ SDG projects.
- A Certificate of Achievement, co-signed by the Ban Ki-moon Foundation co-chairs, including H.E. Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following documents during the online application process:
- Completed application form (personal and professional information)
- Motivational statement highlighting your interest and goals
- Portrait photo (JPEG or PNG format)
- One-minute video introduction (MP4 or MOV format, maximum 60 seconds)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Outline of your proposed SDG project
All materials must be submitted before the application deadline.
Programme Highlights
- A fully virtual learning environment with global experts and mentors.
- Exposure to international best practices in sustainable development.
- Access to an exclusive alumni network of emerging global leaders.
- Practical experience in designing and implementing real-world SDG projects.
How to Apply
Applications for the Ban Ki-moon Foundation Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2026 are open until 4 March 2026.
Selected scholars will be notified ahead of the April 2026 programme start.
👉 Read more about the programme
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