The World Academy of Sciences for the Advancement of Science in Developing Countries' Arab Regional Partner (TWAS–AREP) and the Center for Special Studies and Programs (CSSP) at the Academic Research Sector, Library of Alexandria, wishes you a Happy New Year filled with great achievements, good health, and lasting happiness.

On Sunday, 7 December 2025, Professor Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and The World Academy of Sciences’ Arab Regional Partner (TWAS–AREP) team, welcomed Professor Marcelo Knobel, Executive Director of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), to discuss strengthening strategic cooperation in advancing scientific research and sustainable development.

The meeting, which coincides with the twentieth anniversary of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina hosting TWAS–AREP, was attended by Ms. Heba Elrafey, Senior Public Relations and Acting Head of the External Relations and Media Sector; Dr. Marwa El-Wakeel, Head of the Academic Research Sector; Eng. Esraa El-Fayoumi, Acting Head of the Researchers' Support and Development Unit at the CSSP; and Ms. Eman Wahdan, Acting Head of the Public Relations Section. Following an introductory tour of the library, Professor Knobel engaged in high-level discussions with TWAS–AREP team to emphasize their shared mission of promoting scientific excellence and supporting young researchers across the Arab region.

Applications are now open for the prestigious annual Science Diplomacy Summer Course, organized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). Recognized as one of the world’s leading programs in the field, the course is scheduled to take place in person from 20–23 July 2026 in Trieste, Italy. The organizers are currently seeking motivated candidates eager to explore the intersection of scientific research and international policy.

This intensive program offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage with global experts and build the skills necessary to address complex cross-border challenges through scientific cooperation.

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The Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS/UNESCO) are pleased to announce the opening of applications for their prestigious joint doctoral scholarship program.

Under this tripartite agreement, up to 40 scholars from developing countries will be sponsored to pursue PhD degrees in China for a duration of up to four years. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to fostering scientific excellence and capacity building across the Global South.

The ANSO-CAS-TWAS PhD Scholarship program is now accepting applications from talented researchers in the Global South to pursue a four-year doctoral degree in China at either USTC or UCAS. Open to non-Chinese nationals born after 1 January 1991, this prestigious opportunity covers ten diverse scientific disciplines—ranging from Agricultural and Medical Sciences to Engineering and Social Sciences—provided candidates are proficient in English or Chinese and meet all university admission requirements. Interested applicants must not be currently enrolled in a doctoral program in China or hold concurrent assignments, and they must submit their applications by the 31 January 2026 deadline to be considered for this comprehensive support initiative.

Interested candidates are encouraged to review the full application guidelines and submit their materials before the deadline.

For inquiries, please contact the fellowships office at fellowships@twas.org

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The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and the Conrado Wessel Foundation (FCW) have officially launched the "Through Southern Lenses: Science in Focus" Award, a prestigious international competition celebrating the intersection of art and scientific communication.

This year’s theme, "Glaciers and Deserts," invites photographers to submit compelling photo essays that capture the stark contrasts and ecological vulnerabilities of these extreme environments.

Photographers are encouraged to document the critical relationships between climate change, ecology, and human resilience within the Global South.

The winner will receive a $20,000 award and have their work showcased in an international exhibition.

Submissions are open until 15 February 2026.

For more information or to submit your portfolio, visit the official portal or contact contact@southernlenses.org

Learn more and submit here:

The Mustafa Prize, a premier global award celebrating scientific breakthroughs and innovation, has officially opened the nomination cycle for its 2026 edition. This prestigious biennial prize honors the outstanding achievements of Muslim scientists, providing a global platform to highlight contributions that push the boundaries of knowledge and address critical societal challenges.

Winners of the Mustafa Prize receive one of the world's most significant scientific honors, which includes a $500,000 cash prize, a commemorative medal, and an honorary certificate. Beyond the monetary award, the prize aims to foster international scientific cooperation and inspire the next generation of researchers within the Islamic world and beyond.

Nomination Requirements & Eligibility:

In accordance with the prize's rigorous standards for scientific credibility, self-nominations and individual applications are not accepted. Candidates must be formally introduced to the Secretariat by recognized nominating bodies, including:

• Accredited Universities and Research Centers
• Academies of Sciences and Technology Parks
• World-renowned Scientists and Distinguished Scholars

Each scientific work must be submitted individually via the official registration portal by the authorized nominating institution or figure.

The deadline for all submissions is 20 February 2026.

More info: