Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 in USA | Fully Funded

If you are a Pakistani professional passionate about education and gender equality, the Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 in the United States offers a life-changing opportunity. This prestigious fully funded fellowship is hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) at the Brookings Institution, one of the world’s leading think tanks.

Designed for mid-career leaders from the Global South, the program supports professionals working to advance girls’ education, improve learning outcomes, and promote gender-transformative education in their home countries.

About the Echidna Global Scholars Program

The Echidna Global Scholars Program is a six-month visiting fellowship at Brookings in Washington, D.C. It enables professionals from developing countries, including Pakistan, to conduct in-depth research, enhance leadership capabilities, and develop evidence-based education policies that drive change at both local and global levels.

The fellowship’s goal is simple — to empower leaders who can design and implement strategies that strengthen education systems for girls, women, and marginalized groups worldwide.

Check: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships 2026

Quick Details

Program Structure

The fellowship follows a structured, three-phase approach to ensure maximum impact and professional growth:

1. Pre-Residency (Home Country Phase)

• Scholars start their research from their home country.
• Engage in virtual leadership training and policy workshops.
• Develop an Impact Strategy to guide their work after the program.

2. Residency (Washington, D.C., USA)

• Scholars spend several months at Brookings Institution.
• Participate in advanced research, leadership seminars, and policy dialogues.
• Publish research findings and engage with global education experts.

3. Post-Residency (Implementation Phase)

• Scholars return to their countries to execute their Impact Strategy.
• Receive continuous mentorship from Brookings experts.
• Join the Echidna Alumni Network for future collaborations and funding opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

The Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 welcomes applications from individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be from a Global South country, including Pakistan.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in education, gender equality, or social development.
• Education: Must hold at least a Master’s degree (or higher) in education, social sciences, public policy, or related fields.
• Commitment: Must demonstrate intent to return home and apply the fellowship experience locally.
• Language: Strong proficiency in English (spoken and written).

Pakistani education professionals, NGO leaders, and policy advocates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Benefits of the Fellowship

The Echidna Global Scholars Fellowship is a fully funded international program, offering:

• Full coverage of travel, accommodation, and living expenses in the USA.
• Research and publication support through Brookings.
• Access to leadership development workshops and networking opportunities.
• Mentorship from globally renowned education and policy experts.
• Long-term engagement through the Echidna Alumni Network.

This is one of the best fully funded fellowships in the USA for professionals dedicated to transforming education and advancing gender equality.

Application Process & Deadline

Interested candidates must apply online through the Brookings Institution official portal.

• Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
• Virtual Info Session: October 22, 2025 (8:00 a.m. EDT)
• Required Documents:
  • Updated CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Completed Questionnaire
  • 3–5 page Research Proposal focusing on improving girls’ education or gender equality

Tip: A strong research proposal with measurable outcomes and a clear local implementation plan greatly enhances your selection chances.

Final Thoughts

The Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 is more than a fellowship — it’s a global movement for change. For Pakistani educationists, gender specialists, and policymakers, this is a golden opportunity to amplify your impact and contribute to gender-transformative education reform.

Start preparing your research proposal today and take your place among the next generation of education leaders shaping a more equitable world. Apply Now!