Deadline: March 23, 2026
The Shiraka Training Programme 2026 is now open for applications. This fully funded professional development opportunity is designed for mid-career public officials from eligible countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The programme strengthens public administration, supports institutional reform, and promotes cooperation between MENA governments and the Netherlands.
If you are a government professional seeking advanced training in public service delivery, governance, or sector-specific reform, the Shiraka Training Programme 2026 offers a unique opportunity to build expertise and international networks.
About the Shiraka Programme
The Shiraka Programme is an initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. It aims to enhance sustainable development, good governance, and bilateral cooperation between the Netherlands and selected MENA countries.
The training component is implemented by the The Hague Academy for Local Governance, a leading Dutch institute specialising in practice-oriented training for public sector professionals.
Eligible Countries
Mid-career public officials from the following countries are eligible to apply:
- Algeria
- Egypt
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Morocco
- Oman
- Palestinian Territories
- Tunisia
Applicants must be currently employed in the public sector and able to demonstrate how the training aligns with their professional responsibilities.
Programme Focus Areas
The Shiraka Training Programme 2026 offers specialised thematic courses tailored to public sector needs. Focus areas include:
- Public service delivery
- Water management
- Food safety
- Public financial management
- Legislation and regulatory frameworks
The courses combine:
- Interactive lectures
- Practical workshops
- Case studies
- Study visits and field trips
- Peer learning and networking opportunities
The training approach ensures participants gain both theoretical insights and practical tools that can be applied directly within their institutions.
Funding and Scholarship Coverage
The Shiraka Training Programme 2026 provides scholarships funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For Participants from OECD-DAC Listed Countries:
The scholarship covers:
- International travel costs
- Accommodation
- Visa fees
- Insurance
- Tuition fees
For Participants from Non-OECD-DAC Listed Countries:
The scholarship covers:
- Accommodation
- Insurance
- Tuition fees
Participants from these countries are responsible for their own international travel expenses.
This funding structure ensures broad access while maintaining sustainability of the programme.
Training Format and Location
Depending on the specific course, the programme may be delivered:
- Online
- In selected MENA countries
- In the Netherlands
Some tracks combine virtual and in-person components to maximise flexibility and impact.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 23 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must create an account and complete the online application through the official Shiraka portal.
Carefully review the course brochure and eligibility criteria before submitting your application to ensure all required documents are included.
Why Apply for the Shiraka Training Programme 2026?
- Gain advanced public sector expertise
- Learn from Dutch governance models and best practices
- Expand your professional network across the MENA region
- Strengthen institutional capacity within your ministry or agency
- Receive a prestigious, government-funded scholarship
For mid-career professionals seeking impactful training, the Shiraka Training Programme 2026 represents a strategic opportunity to enhance leadership and policy implementation capacity.
If you would like professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review.
