The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has officially opened nominations for the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education 2026 edition.
This prestigious global award recognizes outstanding and innovative initiatives that advance education opportunities for girls and women worldwide.
About the Prize
Established in 2016, the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education is the first of its kind dedicated exclusively to promoting gender equality through education.
It highlights impactful projects that improve learning access, empower women and girls, and enhance their quality of life.
Funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Prize celebrates transformative initiatives that address educational disparities and foster inclusive and sustainable development.
Award Details
- Number of Laureates: Two winners annually
- Prize Value: US $50,000 per laureate
- Established: 2016
- Administered by: UNESCO
- Funding Partner: Government of the People’s Republic of China
- Focus Area: Advancing girls’ and women’s education globally
Selection Process
The laureates are selected through a rigorous and transparent process:
- An independent international jury of five experts evaluates nominations.
- The jury submits recommendations to the UNESCO Director-General.
- The Director-General makes the final selection and announces the winners.
Eligibility Criteria
Nominations are open to:
- Individuals
- Institutions
- Non-governmental organizations
- Government bodies
- Academic and research institutions
Eligible projects must:
- Demonstrate measurable impact on girls’ and women’s education.
- Show innovation, sustainability, and scalability.
- Have been operational for at least two years.
- Contribute to improving educational access, quality, and empowerment.
2026 Call for Nominations
The call for nominations for the 2026 edition is now open. Qualified organizations and individuals worldwide are encouraged to submit initiatives that promote gender equality and expand access to education for girls and women.
Supporting Resources for Applicants
Applicants and nominators can access the following materials through UNESCO:
- Selection criteria and explanatory notes
- Online nomination platform
- Official statutes of the Prize
- Information on the international jury
- Nomination calendar and guidelines
A Decade of Impact
Since its launch in 2016, the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education has recognized pioneering initiatives that transform lives through education.
As it marks a decade of action, the Prize continues to champion innovative solutions that empower girls and women and support global sustainable development goals.
