UNESCO AfriMAB GRÓ-LRT Land Restoration Fellowships 2027: Fully-Funded Opportunity

Applications are now open for the UNESCO AfriMAB GRÓ-LRT Land Restoration Fellowships 2027. This fully-funded fellowship is designed for professionals working in African biosphere reserves who are committed to land restoration. The program offers a six-month training period in Iceland, combining coursework with practical project work.

Application Closing Date: September 21, 2026
Location: Iceland
Programme Duration: Six months
Stipend: Fully funded, covering living expenses
Minimum Qualification: At least one university degree in a relevant field

About the UNESCO AfriMAB GRÓ-LRT Land Restoration Fellowships

This fellowship is a collaboration between AfriMAB, the network of UNESCO biosphere reserves in Africa, and Iceland’s GRÓ Land Restoration Training Programme (GRÓ LRT). The program aims to build capacity in land restoration across African biosphere reserves. Selected fellows will gain valuable knowledge and practical skills in restoration techniques.

The six-month program begins on February 26, 2027, at the Agricultural University of Iceland. Participants will engage in coursework and undertake an individual restoration project. This project will be tailored to the specific needs of their home institution, ensuring direct applicability upon their return. Upon successful completion, fellows will receive a postgraduate diploma and university credits.

About UNESCO and GRÓ LRT

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, works to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, culture, and communication. The AfriMAB network connects UNESCO biosphere reserves across Africa, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. GRÓ LRT, based in Iceland, is dedicated to training professionals in land restoration techniques.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

This fellowship focuses on land restoration within biosphere reserves. While specific fields of study are broad, they relate to ecological restoration and environmental management. The program seeks individuals who can contribute to restoration efforts in their home countries.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will benefit from a fully funded program. This includes coverage for tuition and academic expenses. Travel and health insurance costs are also included. A stipend will be provided to cover all living expenses during the six-month stay in Iceland.

Institutions that nominate a candidate are requested to grant full study leave for the duration of the fellowship. They are also asked to continue paying the fellow’s salary and benefits. Upon returning, the fellow should be reinstated in their original position.

Programme Duration and Location

The fellowship program will run for six months, starting on February 26, 2027. The training will take place at the Agricultural University of Iceland. Fellows will live and study in Iceland during this period.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must hold a prominent role in ecosystem restoration activities within a biosphere reserve. They should possess at least one university degree relevant to land restoration, such as ecology, natural sciences, or environmental management. Candidates must have a minimum of one year of relevant experience working in a biosphere reserve.

Additionally, applicants must be able to communicate effectively in English, both spoken and written, as it is the working language of GRÓ LRT. Applicants should also be under the age of 40. In certain cases, candidates without the formal education requirement but with extensive relevant work experience may be considered.

Competencies Required

Strong communication skills are essential for this program. Applicants should demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to new environments and techniques. A commitment to land restoration and a professional attitude are also important qualities. The ability to work independently on a restoration project is expected.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for professionals working in African biosphere reserves who are dedicated to improving land restoration practices. It is suited for individuals who want to deepen their expertise and bring back valuable skills to their home institutions. If you are passionate about environmental management and have a desire to contribute to sustainable land use, this opportunity is for you.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare several documents for their application. These include a letter of motivation, outlining their interest and suitability for the fellowship. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing their experience and qualifications is also required.

A letter of endorsement from the biosphere reserve where the applicant works is necessary. Additionally, a letter of endorsement from the national MAB Focal Point or MAB Committee in their country is needed. Finally, copies of academic achievement certificates must be submitted. All documents must be uploaded in PDF format via the online application form.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit all required documents through the online application form. Ensure all documents are certified and uploaded correctly in PDF format. Review your application carefully before submitting to ensure all information is accurate and complete.

For more information and to access the application portal, visit the official UNESCO website.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their application is complete and submitted before the closing date. Meeting all the minimum requirements is essential for consideration.

Closing Date

The closing date for the UNESCO AfriMAB GRÓ-LRT Land Restoration Fellowships 2027 is September 21, 2026. Ensure your application is submitted well before this date.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.