Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 in USA

If you are a mid-career professional passionate about improving girls’ education and gender equality in Pakistan, the Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity to make a global impact. Organized by the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., this fully funded fellowship in the USA empowers education leaders from the Global South—including Pakistan—to conduct research, develop leadership skills, and influence education policy for gender equity.

This fellowship is ideal for those looking to study in the USA, expand their research portfolio, and join a global network of scholars driving change in education systems worldwide.

Check: University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship 2025

Fellowship Overview

Host Country	United States of America
Host Organization	The Brookings Institution, Washington D.C.
Degree Level	Fellowship Program (for mid-career professionals with a Master’s degree or higher)
Eligible Nationalities	Open to citizens of the Global South, including Pakistan
Benefits	Fully funded
Deadline	December 15, 2025

About the Echidna Global Scholars Program

The Echidna Global Scholars Program is a six-month visiting fellowship designed to strengthen the evidence base and leadership in gender equality in education. It allows scholars to spend time at the Brookings Institution, one of the world’s most respected think tanks, to conduct high-impact research, publish findings, and gain exposure to global education policies.

The program includes three stages:

Stage	Location & Duration	Focus
Pre-Residency	In the applicant’s home country (Pakistan or elsewhere)	Research preparation, data collection, and virtual workshops.
Residency Phase	Washington, D.C. (6 months)	Conducting research, publishing findings, networking, and leadership development.
Post-Residency	Home country (2 years)	Implementation of impact plans, mentorship, and community engagement.

After completing the program, fellows join the Echidna Alumni Network, gaining access to international collaborations, funding opportunities, and continued leadership support.

Eligibility Criteria for Pakistani Applicants

Yes — Pakistani professionals are eligible to apply for the Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026. The fellowship specifically invites applications from countries in the Global South, and Pakistan falls into this category.

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Hold at least a Master’s degree in Education, Public Policy, Gender Studies, Development Studies, or related fields.
Have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in education, research, or public policy.
Demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing girls’ education or gender equality in Pakistan.
Show leadership potential and the ability to influence education policy or community development.
Possess excellent English communication skills, as the program is conducted entirely in English.
Intend to return to Pakistan after the fellowship to implement their project and create sustainable impact.

If you are currently involved in education reform, NGOs, government policymaking, or research in Pakistan, this program provides the perfect platform to amplify your work internationally.

Key Dates and Application Process

Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
Information Session: October 22, 2025 (Virtual)
Residency Program:2026 in Washington, D.C.

The application process includes submitting:

A detailed CV/Resume
A Cover Letter explaining your motivation and objectives
A 3–5 page research proposal on gender and education issues in your context
Responses to the Brookings questionnaire

Applications are submitted directly through the Brookings Institution’s official website. Shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews.

Conclusion

The Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026 is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for Pakistani professionals passionate about educational reform and gender equity. By participating, you can elevate your research, expand your influence, and contribute to meaningful change in Pakistan’s education system.

If you aspire to make a difference in girls’ education and want to connect with global leaders in education policy, apply before December 15, 2025. This could be your chance to bring international expertise home and become a voice for educational transformation in Pakistan. Apply Now!