Applications are currently being accepted for the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future 2026/2027. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About RYCO Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) and the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) are excited to collaborate for the seventh consecutive year to bring you the highly anticipated youth exchange program “Western Balkans meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future”. Taking place from 20-26 January 2027, this program welcomes 13 undergraduate or graduate students aged 20 years old or older, coming from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia to apply for a great opportunity of personal and professional growth.
Benefits of RYCO Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future
The Western Balkans Meet Japan 2026/2027 program provides financial support for major costs connected with participation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan will cover:
- Round-trip international economy-class airfare
- Overseas travel and accident insurance
- Accommodation in Japan
- Transportation in Japan
- Meals during the program
- Admission fees for scheduled activities
Participants must cover personal expenses, including passport costs, visa fees, vaccination costs, excess baggage, transportation between their home and the designated airport, and personal purchases.
The program combines academic discussions, cultural exchange, and institutional visits. Previous participants visited institutions and locations such as JICA Headquarters, Sophia University, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
RYCO Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future Requirements
- Being currently enrolled student in an undergraduate, graduate or PhD program in the Western Balkans and aged 20+ years at the time of application.
- Living in one of the Western Balkans societies and holding a passport issued by one of the WB6 (Applicants who have Japanese nationality are NOT eligible).
- Having a good command of English.
- Being motivated to disseminate information on Japan’s attractions through various communication tools, good academic achievements and social activism.
- Neither having participated in exchange or similar program(s) by the Government of Japan nor having lived in Japan.
- Respecting the spirit of reconciliation and cooperation in the Western Balkans.
- Having a valid passport.
- Applicants with demonstrated ties to Japan, whether through previous studies, cultural activities, or related experience, will be considered an asset
- Desirable that applicants have a proven track record in the fields of dealing with the past, reconciliation, regional cooperation and/or intercultural learning.
Application Date and Process
Eligible students can apply online through the application form provided by the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO). Applicants should first review the full program overview and eligibility requirements before submitting their application.
The application process includes the following steps:
- Check that you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Review the official MIRAI Program information and application instructions.
- Prepare the required personal, academic, and other application information.
- Complete the online application form provided by RYCO.
- Submit the application before the stated closing time.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview in September.
- Selected participants are expected to be notified by mid-October.
Application Deadline
31 August, 2026
Opportunity Application
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RYCO Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future
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