Call for Applications: JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Program (KCCP) for Long-Term Participants “SDGs Global Leader” enrollment in 2027 Autumn

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Program (KCCP) for Long-Term Participants (JICA Development Studies Program) "SDGs Global Leader”, enrollment in 2027 Autumn.
The program provides opportunities for eligible participants to pursue graduate studies in Japan, aiming to develop future leaders who will contribute to policy formulation and implementation for sustainable development in their respective fields.

Program Overview
Participants may apply for:

• A Master’s Degree Program (approximately two years); or
• A Ph.D. Program (approximately three years).

The enrollment period is expected to begin between August and October 2027, depending on the university and academic schedule. Some participants may initially be admitted as research students, which may affect the duration of study.

Target Applicants
The program is intended for:

• Young and mid-career government officials;
• Prospective academics and researchers;
• Professionals expected to contribute to the development and implementation of policies addressing sustainable development challenges;
• Citizens of Ukraine.

Application Deadline
16 October 2026
Applications and supporting documents must be submitted to the National Agency of Ukraine on Civil Service (NAUCS), Center for Adaptation of the Civil Service to the Standards of the European Union (pao@center.gov.ua) by the deadline.

Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:

1. Official Application Form with authorized signature and official stamp of the organization;
2. Graduation Certificate;
3. Academic Transcript;
4. Photocopy of English Language Test Certificate;
5. Copy of Passport or Photo ID;
6. Two ID photographs (4 cm × 3 cm) affixed to the application form (original and copy);
7. Health Certificate (Only applicable to pre-selected candidates, to be submitted after 1 April 2027; deadline: 30 April 2027).

Important Conditions
Border Crossing and Overseas Stay
Under the current martial law conditions in Ukraine, selected participants must ensure their eligibility to cross the national border and remain abroad for the entire duration of the program.
Commitment to Participation
Selected participants are strongly encouraged to complete the full training program. Withdrawal after selection should occur only in exceptional circumstances and must be justified through an official letter from the participant’s organization.
Visa Procedures
Successful applicants will be required to apply for a Japanese visa through the Embassy of Japan in Ukraine. Visa processing generally requires at least five working days.
Travel Arrangements

• International travel to Japan will be arranged from Warsaw, Poland or Chisinau, Moldova.
• Participants are responsible for arranging transportation, accommodation, and related logistics in Warsaw or Chisinau, Moldova.
• JICA will reimburse eligible transportation and accommodation expenses in accordance with its regulations and fixed reimbursement rates.

Applicants with Military Affiliation
Applicants affiliated with the armed forces or other military institutions should notify the NAUCS Secretariat at the earliest opportunity. Their eligibility will be assessed by the Government of Japan on a case-by-case basis.

Application Submission and Inquiries
National Agency of Ukraine on Civil Service (NAUCS), Center for Adaptation of the Civil Service to the Standards of the European Union
Applications and inquiries regarding the selection process should be directed to the NAUCS, by email to; pao@center.gov.ua .

Attachments