Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia-Pacific Region 2026 

Background 

Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites and Artefacts

Starting from 2000, in partnership with the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan; ICCROM, and National Research Institutes of Cultural Properties (Tokyo and Nara), the Cultural Heritage Protection Cooperation Office, Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU Nara) has initiated and conducted various capacity-building and outreach programmes targeting young professionals involved in investigation, conservation, and management of cultural heritage in the Asia-Pacific region. 

This year marks the 27th Training Course Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia-Pacific Region. The course theme is ‘Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites and Artifacts’ and is designed to provide fundamental knowledge and techniques of archaeological work, from survey, excavation, and documentation to interpretation, management, and use of archaeological sites and artifacts. The course is open to young archaeologists and heritage practitioners seeking to enhance their skills and expand their professional networks in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Objectives 

The objectives of this course are to provide participants with: 

  • Knowledge of cultural heritage protection and management systems globally and on Japanese examples. 
  • Knowledge of archaeological fieldwork methods, including survey, excavation, and documentation of sites. 
  • Knowledge and techniques for artifact analysis, documentation, and storage. 
  • Knowledge of site management and utilization, collections care and museum work. 
  • Opportunities to share knowledge and build professional networks. 

Course Programme 

The course programme is designed so that participants can learn about conservation and management systems, investigative methodologies, and the documentation and utilization of archaeological sites and artifacts, using Japanese examples. In addition to Japanese experts, resource persons from ICCROM will deliver lectures and participate in discussions on international theory and practice in heritage conservation and management. 

The course is structured into five interconnected units and involves online and on-site programmes. Self-paced learning through video lectures and real-time discussions will be conducted online, while practical training and study visits will be organized in Japan. 

Dates and Method 

Dates: 20 August (Thu) - 8 October (Thu) 

  • Online programme: 20 August – 10 September 
  • On-site programme (Nara): 25 September – 8 October 

Participants

A maximum of 15 young professionals engaged in archaeology in the Asia-Pacific region (For the full list of eligible countries, refer to the General Information)

Course Fee

Free

How to Apply

Complete the application documents and submit them, together with a Letter of Recommendation from your National Commission (NATCOM), to nara@accu.or.jp by 30 June 2026.

Required Documents

A confirmation email will be sent once your application is received. If you do not receive confirmation within one week, please contact nara@accu.or.jp.

Please note: Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered.

More info 

More information available here. For any additional information and inquiries, please contact: 

Cultural Heritage Protection Cooperation Office, Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU Nara) 

Nara Prefecture Historical and Artistic Culture Complex, Restorations and Exhibition Wing 2F; 

437-3, Somanouchi-cho, Tenri, 632-0032, Japan 

TEL: +81-743-69-5010 E-mail: nara@accu.or.jp