Applications are now open for the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 in the Republic of Korea. This Fully Funded international forum will take place from 13 to 21 July 2026 under the theme “World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change.” The program is hosted by the Republic of Korea through the Korea Heritage Service (KHS) and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (KNCU), as part of the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee and the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme. International Students and young professionals passionate about heritage conservation are encouraged to Apply Online before the Deadline.
About the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026
- Host Country: Republic of Korea
- Duration: 9 Days
- Dates: 13–21 July 2026 (Arrival on 12 July 2026)
- Benefits: Fully Funded (Travel, Accommodation, Meals, Visa Support)
- Deadline: 15 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
Also Check:
- Fully Funded UNESCO Internship Program
- DAAD EPOS Scholarship in Germany
- Japan Government (MEXT) Scholarship
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is a flagship initiative of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme. It gathers 30 young professionals from across the globe to exchange ideas, participate in site visits, and strengthen their understanding of the World Heritage Convention. At the end of the forum, participants will present a Youth Declaration during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee.
Financial Benefits
This is a Fully Funded opportunity. The organizers will cover:
- Round-trip international airfare (economy class)
- Accommodation for the entire duration of the forum
- Local transportation in Korea
- Meals during the program
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Travel and visa assistance support
If participants choose to extend their stay beyond 21 July 2026, additional costs will be their own responsibility.
Also Check:
- Fully Funded Youth Summit in Europe
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Scholarships
Program Theme
“World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change.”
The forum aims to strengthen the skills, commitment, and critical thinking of young professionals involved in protecting and managing natural and cultural World Heritage sites.
Participants will explore:
- The role of communities in heritage conservation and management
- How education and research contribute to effective site protection
- Ways young people can actively support inclusive and sustainable heritage governance
The program includes thematic discussions, workshops, collaborative group work, and site visits to World Heritage properties in the Republic of Korea. Participants will also engage in a joint session with the World Heritage Site Managers Forum and work together to draft and present the Youth Declaration.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries (balanced geographical representation will be ensured)
- Age: Between 23 and 32 years old (born between 1994 and 2003 inclusive)
- Background: Young professionals and practitioners working in areas such as:
- Education and teaching (formal learning settings)
- World Heritage site management
- Research and innovation related to World Heritage
- NGOs or community-level organizations focused on heritage
- Requirements:
- Demonstrated engagement in World Heritage-related activities
- Strong motivation to contribute to discussions on youth, communities, and education
- Full availability for the entire forum duration
- Proficiency in English (the forum will be conducted in English)
The selection process will prioritize gender balance, diversity of professional backgrounds, and the applicant’s potential to create impact after the program.
How to Apply for the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026?
Interested candidates must Apply Online through the official application form available on the UNESCO website. Only complete applications submitted through the online portal will be considered. Recommendations or nominations are not required, as selection is strictly based on the submitted application.
Application Deadline: 15 March 2026 at 23:59 CET.
Selected candidates will be notified via email. Visit the official UNESCO website to access the application form and complete your submission before the deadline.
