Federal Ministry of Education (FME) Diaspora Bridge Program 2026 – Fully Funded Fellowship
The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) in collaboration with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) is inviting applications for the 2026 Diaspora Bridge Program (BRIDGE). This initiative connects Nigerian academics and professionals with their counterparts in the diaspora to drive research, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
Program Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Nigeria |
| Organizers | Federal Ministry of Education & TETFund |
| Category | Training | Fellowships | Research Collaboration |
| Eligible Countries | Nigeria (including Nigerian diaspora) |
| Reward | Funding, Grants, Research Collaboration, Networking, Mentorship |
| Language Requirement | No IELTS Required |
| Deadline | July 12, 2026 |
About the FME Diaspora Bridge Program
The BRIDGE Program – short for Bridging Research, Innovation, Development & Global Engagement – is a platform that fosters collaborations between Nigerian academics and diaspora professionals. It aims to enhance Nigeria’s academic landscape by improving research quality, attracting global funding, and facilitating the transfer of knowledge and technology.
Launched to tap into the vast expertise of Nigerians abroad, BRIDGE connects professionals who have excelled globally with Nigerian institutions seeking to innovate, solve pressing challenges, and compete internationally.
Objectives of the Diaspora Bridge Program
- Enhance Research Quality: Drive innovative, impactful research projects.
- Build Institutional Capacity: Strengthen Nigerian universities with modern tools and knowledge.
- Attract International Funding: Improve access to global grants and research contracts.
- Promote Industry Collaboration: Link research with practical, market-driven solutions.
- Develop Talent: Mentor students and early-career academics in Nigeria.
Who Can Participate?
Nigerian Academic Professionals
Staff members at Nigerian universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education engaged in research or seeking collaboration with diaspora experts.
Nigerian Professionals in the Diaspora
Nigerian-origin professionals abroad affiliated with academic, research, or industry institutions who are ready to partner with Nigerian institutions.
Benefits of the Diaspora Bridge Program 2026
- Access to research grants and international funding.
- Opportunities to network with experts globally.
- Knowledge exchange and technology transfer.
- Recognition for contributions to national development.
- Mentorship and training opportunities.
- Collaboration with industry partners for commercialization.
Key Focus Areas
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Health and Medical Sciences
- Environmental and Climate Research
- Education and Teacher Training
- Agriculture and Food Security
- ICT Development and Artificial Intelligence
- Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts
- Renewable Energy and Sustainability
- Public Policy and Governance
How the Program Works
Once accepted, Nigerian institutions and diaspora professionals will collaborate to:
- Design joint research proposals.
- Apply for national and international funding.
- Conduct collaborative research physically or virtually.
- Publish and present results in high-impact forums.
- Implement research outcomes for policy or commercial use.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Prepare Your Documents
Update your CV and draft a concise research interest statement.
Step 2 – Visit the Official Portal
Go to the FME BRIDGE Program official page.
Step 3 – Select Participant Category
Choose whether you’re applying as a Nigerian academic professional or a diaspora professional.
Step 4 – Complete the Online Application
Fill in the required details and upload your supporting documents.
Step 5 – Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure your application is submitted before July 12, 2026.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight academic achievements and previous collaborations.
- Align your proposal with Nigeria’s national development priorities.
- Collaborate early with your intended partner.
- Write clearly and avoid jargon.
- Submit well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
