The African Business Education Initiative for Youth (ABE Initiative)

The ABE Initiative is designed to nurture a new generation of African leaders equipped with academic knowledge and business skills that can foster partnerships between Africa and Japan.

Key features of the programme include:

• Eligibility: Open to applicants from both the public and private sectors.
• Academic and practical training: Participants will pursue Master’s degree studies in Japan while also gaining hands-on experience through internships with Japanese companies.
• Alignment with Kenya’s development goals: Priority will be given to applicants whose proposed studies align with Kenya’s National Development Plan. Special consideration will go to individuals from the private sector with demonstrated experience in economic activities and the capacity to develop long-term business and investment linkages with Japanese partners.

The ABE Initiative represents a unique chance for Kenyan professionals to not only advance their academic qualifications but also strengthen bilateral cooperation by fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border business partnerships.

2. The SDGs Global Leadership Program

The SDGs Global Leadership Program targets policymakers and government officials who are committed to tackling sustainable development challenges through evidence-based solutions.

Key features of the programme include:

• Eligibility: Open exclusively to government officials.
• Academic opportunities: Successful applicants may pursue either Master’s or Doctoral degrees in Japan.
• Target group: Young and middle-level officials with the ambition to contribute to policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation in the context of Kenya’s sustainable development priorities.

This programme builds capacity for effective governance by equipping participants with advanced research skills, comparative perspectives, and global policy insights to drive forward Kenya’s progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Eligibility Requirements for Both Programmes

Applicants interested in either of the two programmes must meet the following criteria:

• Be under 40 years of age as of 1st April 2026.
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree and demonstrate relevant professional experience in their area of study or field of work.
• Prepare and submit the following documentation:
  • Completed Application Form.
  • Career Plan after Graduation, demonstrating how the acquired skills and knowledge will be applied to Kenya’s development.
  • Research Plan, aligned with the chosen programme of study.
  • Proof of English proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS) where required by the host university in Japan.