Government of Japan UNITAR Empowering Youth and Women Programme 2026

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is launching a seven-month programme to strengthen the capacity of African youth and women to turn innovative ideas into scalable, investment-ready initiatives, with a focus on Africa–Japan collaboration.

What it offers

• A 7-month blended programme (August 2026 – February 2027) combining virtual learning, applied project development, mentorship, and international engagement.
• Four progressive phases: Foundations and Opportunity Development; Applied Innovation and Project Development; Leadership and International Engagement; and final project operationalization.
• Structured mentorship, ecosystem exposure, and networking opportunities with African and Japanese innovation actors.
• Training-of-Trainers components to support local knowledge multiplication.
• A short immersion programme in Japan for a limited number of high-performing participants.

Who can apply

• Open to African youth and women with innovative ideas or initiatives aligned with national and regional development priorities.

What you'll do

• Identify real-world opportunities and build solution-oriented concepts.
• Apply digital technologies, AI, and innovation tools to challenges in food security, climate resilience, employment, trade, healthcare, industrialization, and service delivery.
• Refine business models, financial and operational planning, and partnership strategies.
• Develop credible, financially viable, and implementation-ready project proposals.
• Strengthen leadership, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector collaboration competencies.
• Integrate sustainability, gender equality, social impact, and SDG considerations.
• Communicate project value propositions to investors, development partners, public institutions, and private-sector stakeholders.

How to apply

• Applications are accepted until 31 July 2026.
• Registration is application-based; submit via the UNITAR website.
• Mode of delivery is blended (virtual and in-person).
• Programme language is English.

Good to know

• The programme is implemented by UNITAR with support from the Government and People of Japan.
• It contributes to sustainable Africa–Japan relationships grounded in innovation, shared value creation, responsible investment, technology exchange, and inclusive economic transformation.
• Contact: tftp@unitar.org