The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is inviting applications for the Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2026, a Japan-funded learning opportunity designed to strengthen disaster risk reduction (DRR), climate resilience and inclusive leadership skills. The programme is open to motivated people of all genders aged 18 and above, with particular encouragement for applicants living in or originating from Pacific Island countries and territories and Asia-Pacific countries. Participants from other regions may also apply, although the training content is primarily contextualized to the Pacific and Asia. The programme will equip approximately 500 participants with practical knowledge and lifelong skills in disaster preparedness, risk reduction, inclusive leadership and community resilience. The application deadline is 21 August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Japan Standard Time (UTC+9). About the Programme The programme, titled “UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2026 – Building Economies and Livelihood Resilient to Global Shocks,” is designed to strengthen the capacity of individuals and communities to prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters. The training places particular emphasis on women’s leadership, gender-inclusive disaster risk reduction and community resilience. Participants will draw on experiences from Japan and the wider Asia-Pacific region to understand disaster risks and develop practical solutions suited to their communities. The programme is delivered in English and is offered free of charge, with financial support from the Government and People of Japan. Participants who successfully complete all programme requirements will receive a UNITAR certificate. Programme Structure The training consists of two phases, combining online learning with specialized expert training. Phase I: Online Learning The first phase will run from August to November 2026 and will involve approximately 500 participants. Participants will complete self-paced online learning modules, attend expert webinars and undertake practical assignments. The training will introduce core disaster risk reduction concepts and help participants develop an inclusive disaster risk reduction plan for their country or community. The top-performing participants from Phase I will be invited to participate in Phase II. Phase II: Specialized Expert Training The second phase will provide more advanced learning opportunities with regional and international experts, academics, humanitarian professionals and relevant institutions. For participants from Asia and non-Pacific countries, the specialized workshop will be conducted online in February 2027. For participants from Pacific countries, an in-person workshop is planned for March 2027, featuring study tours, specialized lectures and expert discussions. Participants will develop individual projects and deepen their understanding of disaster risk management, leadership, communication and community resilience. Key Learning Outcomes By completing the training, participants are expected to develop knowledge and practical skills in: • Disaster risk reduction concepts, principles and approaches. • The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and Sustainable Development Goals. • Ecosystem-based and community-based disaster risk reduction. • Developing inclusive national and community disaster risk reduction plans. • Lessons from Japan’s experience with major natural hazards, including the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami and the 2018 West Japan Floods. • Gender-inclusive leadership and women’s participation in disaster risk reduction. • Leadership and management skills relevant to disaster preparedness and response. • Hazard assessment and technical risk assessment tools. • Effective communication and media engagement during disasters. • The needs and vulnerabilities of at-risk groups. • Nature-based solutions, Indigenous and traditional knowledge, and local resilience. • Emerging risks, including stress and mental health considerations. Practical Assignments Participants will be expected to complete practical assignments throughout the programme. During Phase I, participants will prepare and submit an individual disaster risk reduction plan. During Phase II, selected participants will develop and present individual projects demonstrating how the knowledge acquired through the programme can be applied to disaster risk reduction challenges. Eligibility Requirements The programme is open to motivated applicants who meet the following requirements: • Be 18 years or older. • Live in or originate from a Pacific Island country, Asia-Pacific country or another eligible country. • Have a strong interest in disaster risk reduction and leadership. • Demonstrate an interest in climate change and its impact on communities. • Be committed to making a positive contribution to their communities. • Have sufficient English-language proficiency to participate in the training. • Be computer literate and have reliable internet access. • Be committed to completing the programme requirements. Applicants of all genders are welcome, with the programme maintaining a strong focus on strengthening women’s leadership in disaster preparedness and response. Priority Countries Applicants from the following countries are particularly encouraged to participate. Pacific: Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Asia: Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam. Applicants from other countries may also participate, subject to the programme’s requirements. Application Deadline The application deadline is 21 August 2026 at 11:59 p.m. JST (UTC+9). Applications must be submitted through the official UNITAR application process. Applications will not be accepted by email. The programme provides an important opportunity for emerging leaders, professionals and community-focused individuals to strengthen their disaster risk reduction knowledge, develop practical resilience strategies and contribute to safer and more inclusive communities. About UNITAR Established in 1965, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research is the dedicated training arm of the United Nations. UNITAR strengthens individual and institutional capacity through training, research and innovative learning solutions, with particular attention to vulnerable contexts and progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) shares   jobs, internships, fellowships, grants, scholarships, and other opportunities for informational purposes only. GSO does not participate in the recruitment or selection process. Applicants should verify the vacancy details, eligibility requirements, application process, and deadline through the official organisation before applying.