The Echidna Global Scholars fellowship consists of three distinct phases:

1. Pre-residency (in home country): With the support from the Center for Universal Education (CUE), scholars begin an intensive period of in-country data collection and analysis, accompanied by a series of virtual workshops, group working meetings, and individual advisory sessions. Scholars are introduced to the leadership concepts and tools that will be the focus of the leadership development program throughout the fellowship and begin developing their impact strategy—identifying and engaging with local stakeholders from their home country.
2. Residency (Washington, D.C.): Scholars focus on expanding reach and impact through publication and dissemination of their research on Brookings’ multimedia platforms, strategic impact capacity building, leadership development, and networking. The residency phase is designed to help scholars strengthen their impact by teaching best practices for analyzing, communicating, and leveraging research for policy and key audiences, as well as expanding scholars’ networks and promoting visibility through Brookings convenings and strategic collaborations—culminating in a virtual symposium on gender equality in and through education research and policy.
3. Post-residency (in home country): During the two-year post-residency period, the CUE team provides targeted support to alumni as they implement impact plans that build off their research. Through strategic advisement, group working meetings, and leadership development support, scholars leverage the knowledge, skills, and connections built throughout the fellowship to catalyze change in their local contexts.

Eligibility Criteria for Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026

1. Must be a mid-career professional from the Global South.
2. Master’s degree or higher in education, development, public policy, economics, or related fields.
3. Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in academia, NGOs, civil society, or government.
4. Proven commitment to improving education outcomes for girls and gender equality.
5. English language proficiency required.
6. Submission includes a CV, cover letter, questionnaire, and a 3–5 page research proposal.

Benefits of Echidna Global Scholars Program 2026

1. Fully funded six-month fellowship in Washington, D.C.
2. Leadership development and policy training
3. Research publication opportunities on Brookings platforms
4. Access to mentorship and global policy experts
5. Post-fellowship support through the Echidna Alumni Network

1. 1. Visit the official Brookings website.
   2. Review the program details and eligibility.
   3. Submit your application online, including all required documents.
   4. Apply before December 15, 2025.

For inquiries, email globalechidna@brookings.edu or attend the virtual information session on October 22, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. EDT.