The Echidna Global Scholars Program’s Visiting Fellowship, hosted by the Center for Universal Education (CUE) within the Global Economy and Development division at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC, is designed to empower local leaders to promote gender equality in and through education across the Global South.
Through a six-month Fellowship at Brookings, scholars conduct research aimed at enhancing educational and life outcomes for girls, young women, and gender non-conforming individuals. Participants also develop leadership and evidence-based policy skills, deepen their knowledge on gender and global education, and build pathways for lasting impact. After completing the Fellowship, scholars join the Echidna Global Scholars Alumni Network, a growing community dedicated to advancing gender-transformative education locally, regionally, and globally.
The Fellowship includes two phases:
- Pre-residency: Scholars engage in research training, leadership, and strategic impact activities. With CUE fellows’ support, they conduct in-country data collection and analysis, participate in virtual workshops and meetings, and receive individual mentorship. Scholars begin their leadership development and craft impact strategies while identifying and working with local partners. The time commitment is around 15-20 hours per week.
- Residency: Based in Washington, DC, the residency focuses on publishing and disseminating research on Brookings platforms, advancing leadership skills, and expanding networks. Scholars strengthen their ability to communicate research for policy audiences, gain visibility through Brookings events, and connect with strategic partners. This phase concludes with the Gender Equality in Education Research and Policy Symposium.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Education and Experience: Applicants should have substantial professional experience related to the Global South, a commitment to returning there after the Fellowship, and a dedication to improving educational outcomes for girls, young women, and gender non-conforming people. A background in education, gender studies, international development, public policy, or a similar field is required, with at least 10 years of professional experience. A Master’s degree is also required.
- Knowledge and Skills: Candidates must possess expertise in education, development, and gender issues, analytical and writing proficiency, and a collaborative spirit. Fluency in English is required.
The Fellowship is a full-time commitment during residency (about 40 hours per week) and part-time (15-20 hours per week) during pre-residency. Program expectations include conducting research, writing a policy paper, presenting findings at Brookings events, engaging in capacity-building activities, crafting a post-residency impact project, and actively participating in Brookings’s community and events.
Program Focus for 2025:
The Program especially welcomes applications from gender equality leaders in education from West Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Middle East and North Africa.
Benefits:
Selected fellows receive a $25,000 USD stipend (subject to U.S. tax), visa support, housing for the four-month residency, round-trip travel, and a health insurance plan.
Application Process:
Submit applications via iCIMS, including a CV or resume listing education, professional experience, publications, and awards. Applicants must also complete the Program’s application form with a research proposal. Letters of recommendation, writing samples, and transcripts are not required.
- Timeline:
- Application deadline: December 15, 2024
- Interviews: January and February 2025
- Selection date: March 15, 2025
- Acceptance date: March 29, 2025
- Fellowship start date: June 15, 2025
For more details, visit the official Echidna Global Scholars Program webpage.
