The UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship 2026 in South Korea is a transformative, fully funded 10-day leadership program for Indian youth under 30 who want to drive peacebuilding, social innovation, and sustainable development. Hosted at Humanitas College, Kyung Hee University from 25 June to 4 July 2026, this intensive fellowship covers international flights, visa, accommodation, meals, and local transport while equipping participants with practical skills to address global challenges through Asia-Pacific case studies.
Basic Information about the Scholarships
- Fellowship name: UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship on Leadership for Peace and Sustainability 2026.
- Host country: South Korea.
- Location: Humanitas College of Kyung Hee University, South Korea
- Host institution: Humanitas College, Kyung Hee University.
- Organizer: UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP).
- Duration: 10 days (25 June – 4 July 2026).
- Application deadline: 25 April 2026 (11:59 PM IST).
- Eligibility: Indian citizens under 30 currently residing in India.
- Funding: Fully funded (flights, visa, accommodation, meals).
University/Institution Details
The fellowship is organized by the UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP), UNESCO’s specialized institute in New Delhi focused on transforming education for peace and sustainability. Partnering with Kyung Hee University’s Humanitas College in Seoul, South Korea, the program leverages the university’s global leadership reputation and peaceful campus environment to create an immersive learning experience blending Korean innovation, Asian perspectives, and UN frameworks for SDG-aligned action.
Purpose
- Develop youth leadership in peace & sustainability
- Focus on SDGs, conflict resolution, digital innovation
- Use Asia-Pacific case studies
- Build a network of young leaders
Study Areas
The fellowship explores leadership through thematic modules:
Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution:
- Non-violent communication strategies
- Intercultural dialogue frameworks
- Community reconciliation models.
Sustainable Development & SDGs:
- Climate action and green innovation
- Gender equality and social inclusion
- Poverty alleviation through education.
Digital Transformation & Innovation:
- Ethical AI and technology for good
- Digital citizenship and media literacy
- Social entrepreneurship tools.
Global Citizenship & Leadership:
- Youth-led social change case studies
- Asia-Pacific peacebuilding examples
- Personal leadership development.
What You’ll Do
- Learn about peacebuilding & conflict
- Explore technology & social innovation
- Participate in:
UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship Benefits
- Round-trip international flights from India.
- Visa expenses covered.
- Full accommodation (shared rooms, Humanitas College).
- All meals during program (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Local transport in Seoul.
- Program materials and certificate.
- Global networking with UNESCO leaders, Korean academics, international youth.
- Leadership toolkit for community implementation.
- Action project support post-fellowship.
Benefits not included
- Pre/post-program sightseeing.
- Private health insurance supplements.
- Family/dependents accompaniment.
- Extended stay in South Korea.
- Post-fellowship funding.
Eligibility Criteria for the UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship
- Under 30 years old
- Must be a citizen of India and living in India
- Must have completed undergraduate degree
- Must attend in person in South Korea
- English proficiency required
- Open to all backgrounds (inclusive of disabilities)
- Diversity encouraged: All genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, disabilities.
Selection Criteria
- Clear connection between:
- Your past experience
- Fellowship learning
- Future career goals
Required Documents for the Application
Online Application Portal:
- Personal information (passport, contact details).
- Online application form
- 2-page CV/Resume
- 2 recommendation letters
- Copy of degree certificate
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) (1-2 pages):
UNESCO MGIEP Youth Fellowship Application Process
Online via MGIEP Portal:
- Step 1: Review program themes; confirm eligibility (Indian, <30).
- Apply only through official online form
- Email applications NOT accepted Contact for queries: Diksha Poddar (UNESCO MGIEP)
- Step 2: Prepare motivation statement linking personal story to peace/SDGs.
- Step 3: Secure strong recommendation from leadership reference.
- Step 4: Complete online application with transcripts/CV.
- Step 5: Submit before 25 April 2026 (11:59 PM IST).
- Step 6: Selection committee review (late April-May 2026).
- Step 7: Notifications early June 2026.
- Step 8: Visa processing (June); travel to Seoul 25 June.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Personal narrative: Share authentic peace/sustainability leadership story.
- SDG alignment: Connect interests to specific Sustainable Development Goals.
- Action plan: Propose concrete post-fellowship community project.
- Diversity strength: Highlight underrepresented background contributions.
- Early submission: Complete well before 25 April deadline.
- Korean context: Express interest in Asia-Pacific perspectives.
- Recommendation quality: Leadership reference > academic transcript.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
Seoul summer: Comfortable campus facilities.
Why Choose This Fellowship?
- Fully funded prestige – UNESCO flagship youth leadership program.
- Kyung Hee University – global peace education leader.
- India-South Korea bridge – Asia-Pacific SDG focus.
- Intensive 10 days – maximum impact, minimal absence.
- Global youth network – UNESCO alumni connections.
- Action-oriented – practical peacebuilding toolkit.
- Diversity inclusive – underrepresented voices prioritized.
Frequently Asked Questions about the fellowship
Fully funded details?
Flights, visa, accommodation, meals, transport.
Indians only?
Yes – Indian citizens residing in India.
Deadline?
25 April 2026 (11:59 PM IST).
Age limit?
Under 30 on 25 June 2026.
IELTS required?
No – demonstrated English proficiency.
Duration?
10 days (25 June – 4 July 2026).
Post-fellowship support?
Action project guidance + alumni network.
Deadline
Official Link:
UN Chemicals and Waste Management Program 2026 in Switzerland
