With the support of the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), UNESCO-TWAS is launching a new programme to strengthen the research capacity of selected countries in the MENA region. The programme is aimed at young scientists from a number of selected Middle Eastern and North African countries (see “Eligibility criteria” below), as well as for diaspora from these countries. It focuses on capacity building in science and education in the target countries, with particular emphasis on research and academic training, as well as interdisciplinary collaborations with German laboratories. Grants are awarded to promising and competitive research projects in key areas relevant to the ‘High-Tech Agenda Germany (HTAD)’: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Technologies, Microelectronics, Biotechnology, Fusion and Climate-Neutral Energy Transition, Technology for Climate-Neutral Mobility, Aerospace, Health Research, Marine, Climate and Sustainability Research, Humanities and Social Sciences.