A Unique Research Opportunity in Japan for Young Scientists from Cape Verde

The UNESCO/Japan Fellowship for Young Researchers It represents a golden opportunity for emerging talent from Cape Verde seeking to broaden their academic and scientific horizons. This scholarship programme, funded by the Government of Japan through the Keizo Obuchi Trust Fund, is designed to support high-quality postgraduate research projects at leading Japanese institutions. With funding of up to 10,000 US dollars, the initiative aims to empower early-career scientists and strengthen knowledge production in developing countries.

Key Areas and Relevance to Cape Verde

The programme gives priority to research projects focusing on four strategic areas that are vital for sustainable development:

  • Environment: with a particular focus on climate change, resilience and natural resource management;
  • Information and Communication Technologies (ICT): promoting innovation and digital transformation;
  • Intercultural Dialogue: promoting social cohesion and cultural preservation;
  • Peaceful Conflict Resolution: strengthening dialogue and governance.

For young Cape Verdean researchers, this scholarship provides an ideal platform for developing innovative solutions to the challenges facing the archipelago, such as the energy transition, the blue economy and water scarcity management.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered eligible, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  1. Hold Cape Verdean nationality (or that of another country eligible under UNESCO);
  2. Hold at least a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) or equivalent;
  3. Be under 40 years of age;
  4. Submit a well-structured research proposal that is aligned with the programme’s areas;
  5. Have received prior acceptance from a higher education institution or research centre in Japan.

As well as having a direct impact on one’s academic career, this experience enables participants to build international networks for scientific collaboration and gain access to cutting-edge technologies.


Application deadline: 30 September 2026.

Please see the full requirements, the rules and the application form via the following links:

en_GB