The objective of the United Nations Nippon Foundation of Japan Fellowship is to provide opportunities for advanced education and research. Further,  in the field of ocean affairs and the law of the sea, and related disciplines including marine science. It is in support of management frameworks, to Government officials and other mid-level professionals.  From developing States, so that they may obtain the necessary knowledge to assist their countries to formulate comprehensive ocean policy. Also,  to implement the legal regime set out in UNCLOS and related instruments.

Moreover, Upon completion of the fellowship, fellows should have awareness in advance and understanding of key issues. Further,  best international practices in ocean affairs and are to return to their home countries. To contribute their experience to assist with the effective implementation of UNCLOS. Also,  related instruments and programmes. Fellows should be able to design, implement and/or evaluate specific improvement projects in their home countries related to ocean affairs, develop a core leadership capacity and have an in-depth understanding of legal frameworks, methodologies and tools to further improve implementation of instruments and programmes and to provide for their effective enforcement in conformity with international law.

Program Structure

The 9-month United Nations Nippon Foundation of Japan Fellowship Programme is of two consecutive phases. Which provide Fellows with advanced and customized research and training opportunities in their chosen fields:

• Phase One: 3-month Research and Training – normally undertaken between March/April and June at DOALOS at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
• Phase Two: 6-month Advanced Academic Research and Study – normally undertaken between July and December at one of the prestigious participating Host Institutions and under the guidance of subject matter expert(s) who have recognized in-depth expertise in the Fellows’ chosen field of study.

Eligibility

• Candidates must get a nomination from the government, employer or competent organization
• Be between 25 and 40 years
• Possess a first university degree in a related discipline
• Further, be mid-level professionals who can demonstrate that they work directly on ocean issues
• Be able to accept the Fellowship for four (critical needs/thematic fellowships) or nine (Nippon Fellowship) consecutive months
• Also, Be in a good state of health so as to be cleared by the UN Medical Service
• Be in a position to obtain all relevant visas, including transit visas
• Women candidates are strongly invited to apply, with a view to achieving gender balance in the selection process.