The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Engineering 2025 presents a golden opportunity for aspiring engineers from developing nations to enrich their academic experience while contributing to global sustainability. As one of UNESCO’s most enduring collaborations, this prestigious initiative is a testament to international solidarity and academic excellence.
Introduction
Every once in a while, a program emerges that empowers individuals and uplifts entire regions. The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Engineering 2025 is exactly that kind of program—bridging the knowledge divide while fostering peace through science and innovation.
The value of international exposure and advanced research opportunities cannot be overstated in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Hence, for engineers in the developing world, this fellowship serves as a gateway to world-class research, a multicultural academic environment, and a chance to create a meaningful global impact.
About the Programme
Launched as a partnership between UNESCO and the Polish National Commission for UNESCO, with the involvement of the UNESCO Chair at AGH University of Krakow, this fellowship supports 28 engineers from 57 invited countries. Selected fellows will conduct an individual research project in science, technology, or engineering from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
Not only does it aim to build scientific capacity in developing nations, but it also fosters intercultural dialogue, cooperation, and innovation across borders.
What Makes It Unique
Unlike many research programs that offer minimal support or focus on local development alone, this fellowship provides:
- Fully funded six-month research tenure in Poland
- Monthly stipends and academic access
- International travel and medical insurance
- One-on-one mentorship in specialized engineering fields
Moreover, its rigorous selection criteria, combined with support from both UNESCO and the Polish government, ensure the most committed and qualified candidates are chosen.
Invited Member States
The 2025 edition includes 57 invited countries, classified into four major regions:
AFRICA (21 Countries)
Nations like Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Senegal are among the African states invited. These countries have burgeoning engineering sectors and a growing need for infrastructure modernization, making their participation highly strategic.
ARAB STATES (2 Countries)
Only Bahrain and Iraq are invited this round, potentially due to their recent push in STEM development and international collaborations in technology education.
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC (22 Countries)
From Bhutan to Vietnam, the Asia-Pacific list is the most extensive. Given the technological growth in this region, candidates from here are expected to bring unique insights into global engineering challenges.
LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN (12 Countries)
Countries such as Peru, Mexico, and Cuba are part of this list, underlining the program’s commitment to supporting talent from across linguistic and cultural spectra.
Duration and Place of Fellowship Study
All fellowships will be hosted at the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow, Poland—a leading hub of innovation with a strong engineering tradition. The program will run from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
How to Apply – Guidance for Candidates
Before diving into the application, you should:
- Confirm eligibility in Annex II and III
- Review specific project requirements in Annex IV
- Understand the terms in Annex I
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Contact your country’s National Commission for UNESCO
- Prepare all documents (passport, degrees, language certificate)
- Complete the official UNESCO Fellowship Form
- Obtain two recommendation letters
- Submit through your National Commission before 26 May 2025
- Await endorsement and submit the online sheet
💡 Note: Only endorsed applications will be considered. Late or incomplete submissions will be disqualified.
Facilities Offered by the Polish Authorities
- Monthly Allowance: 1800–2200 PLN based on qualification
- Free Tuition: Full access to labs and research spaces
- Arrival Allowance: Covers onboarding activities, medical check, and cultural visits
Facilities Offered by UNESCO
- Round-trip International Travel
- Health Insurance Coverage
- One-time $120 Pocket Allowance
These offerings ensure financial burdens are minimized, allowing fellows to fully focus on their research.
VISA Essentials
Fellows are responsible for securing Polish visas from embassies in their home countries. Neither UNESCO nor the Polish government covers visa-related expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can undergraduates apply?
No, candidates must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
What language should I submit my documents in?
All documents must be submitted in English.
Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit, but early to mid-career professionals are preferred.
Can I submit my application directly to UNESCO?
No. Applications must be sent through your country’s National Commission.
What if my country is not on the list?
Only invited countries listed in Annex II are eligible.
Is this fellowship renewable?
No, the fellowship is valid for one term only—six months.
Conclusion
The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Engineering 2025 stands as a beacon of hope and progress for engineers in developing nations. It doesn’t merely fund research—it ignites futures. This is more than a fellowship; it’s a leap toward innovation, collaboration, and transformation. If you’re eligible, don’t let this chance slip away. Mark your calendars, prepare your documents, and take that bold step into your future.
