AI for Asia Fellowship 2026 | Virtual Fellowship for ASEAN & South Korean Youth

Applications are now open for the AI for Asia Fellowship 2026, an exciting regional youth leadership program focused on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, innovation, and the future of work.

Organized by Siklab, the fellowship will bring together 120 exceptional young leaders from ASEAN member states and South Korea for a 12-week intensive virtual learning experience.

The program aims to empower Asia’s next generation of innovators by developing AI knowledge, leadership capacity, entrepreneurial thinking, and regional collaboration skills.

Fellowship Overview

• Program Name: AI for Asia Fellowship 2026
• Organizer: Siklab
• Program Duration: 11 July – 3 October 2026
• Format: Virtual (with possible hybrid and in-person sessions)
• Number of Fellows: 120
• Eligible Countries:
  • ASEAN Member States
  • South Korea
• Age Requirement: 18–30 years old

Program Focus Areas

The fellowship will focus on:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) knowledge and applications
• Industry 4.0 and workforce mobility
• Entrepreneurship and innovation
• Leadership development
• Regional collaboration
• Digital transformation and future-ready skills

Participants will engage in expert-led sessions, workshops, panel discussions, mentorship activities, case studies, and collaborative learning experiences.

Capstone Project

One of the key highlights of the fellowship is the capstone project, where fellows will work on designing AI-powered solutions to address regional and societal challenges across Southeast Asia.

This provides participants with practical experience in applying AI concepts to real-world issues.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 30 years old
• Be citizens of ASEAN member states or South Korea
• Demonstrate interest in:
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Innovation
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Digital transformation
• Show leadership potential and commitment to inclusive development
• Be able to commit fully to the 12-week fellowship

The program welcomes founders, youth advocates, innovators, professionals, and emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds.

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit:

1. Three Short Essays (Maximum 200 words each)

Essay Topics:

• Your current understanding of AI and its impact on your community or sector
• Your vision for how AI can shape the future of ASEAN
• How the fellowship will help you contribute to inclusive and sustainable development

2. One-Minute Video Introduction

Applicants must record a short self-introduction discussing:

• Their background
• Interests and experiences
• Motivation for joining the fellowship

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applicants should submit a 2–3 page CV highlighting:

• Education
• Leadership roles
• Professional or volunteer experience
• Relevant projects and achievements

Key Dates

• Applications Open: 20 May 2026
• Application Deadline: 20 June 2026
• Results Announcement: 3 July 2026
• Confirmation of Participation: 10 July 2026
• Kick-Off Session: 11 July 2026

Fellowship Sessions

• Session 2: 18 July 2026
• Session 3: 25 July 2026
• Session 4: 8 August 2026
• Session 5: 15 August 2026
• Session 6 & Culminating Activity: 29 August 2026

Benefits of Joining

Selected fellows will have opportunities to:

• Gain future-ready AI and digital skills
• Learn from experts and mentors
• Join a regional network of innovators and youth leaders
• Explore career pathways in AI and Industry 4.0
• Build leadership and collaboration skills
• Co-create innovative AI-powered solutions
• Receive recognition as emerging leaders in digital transformation

The fellowship also offers participants valuable regional exposure and networking opportunities across Southeast Asia and South Korea.

Why This Fellowship Matters

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, economies, and societies, young leaders with AI literacy and innovation skills are becoming increasingly important.

The AI for Asia Fellowship seeks to ensure that youth in Southeast Asia are actively involved in shaping an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable AI-driven future.

The initiative promotes regional cooperation and encourages young innovators to collaborate on solutions for shared regional challenges.