Rotary Peace Fellowship program

The Rotary Peace Fellowship program is a prestigious and fully-funded academic initiative designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles in peace and conflict resolution. As a global program offered by Rotary International, it provides a unique opportunity for individuals who are committed to promoting peace, preventing conflicts, and addressing global challenges.

What is the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program?

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is an initiative that selects and trains individuals from across the globe who have a deep commitment to promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and fostering development. Fellows undergo rigorous academic training in one of Rotary’s partner universities, where they earn either a professional development certificate or a master’s degree in fields related to peace, conflict resolution, or international relations.

The program emphasizes practical skills in negotiation, mediation, and leadership, allowing participants to engage in hands-on activities, research, and fieldwork. Rotary’s aim is to nurture the next generation of peacebuilders who can lead efforts to create a more peaceful world.

Rotary Peace Centers

Rotary partners with top universities worldwide, offering peace fellowships in six different Rotary Peace Centers. These centers are located in:

1. Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
2. International Christian University, Japan
3. University of Bradford, UK
4. University of Queensland, Australia
5. Uppsala University, Sweden
6. Chulalongkorn University, Thailand (for the professional development certificate)

Benefits of the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program

Being a Rotary Peace Fellow offers numerous benefits:

• Full Scholarship: Fellows receive full funding, which covers tuition, housing, travel, and related expenses.
• Diverse Learning Environment: Fellows study alongside people from different cultures and backgrounds, fostering a rich exchange of ideas.
• Global Network: Upon completing the program, fellows become part of an extensive network of peacebuilders and leaders across the globe.
• Field Experience: Fellows gain practical experience in their field through internships, field studies, and service projects.
• Career Opportunities: The fellowship provides the tools, resources, and networks needed to pursue a career in peacebuilding, international development, and humanitarian work.

Who Can Apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program?

Rotary Peace Fellowships are highly competitive and open to individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to peacebuilding, leadership potential, and relevant work experience in peace or conflict resolution. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Relevant Experience: A minimum of three years of relevant work experience for the master’s degree program or five years for the professional development certificate program.
2. Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree for the master’s degree program.
3. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, with additional languages being an asset.
4. Alignment with Rotary’s Values: Candidates must align with Rotary’s mission to promote peace and solve global challenges.

How to Apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program?

The application process for the Rotary Peace Fellowship is detailed and involves several stages:

1. Research the Fellowship: Explore the Rotary Peace Centers and choose which program and location align with your goals.
2. Submit an Application: Applications are submitted through the Rotary International website. It includes academic records, a personal statement, recommendations, and a detailed resume/CV.
3. Interviews and Endorsements: Applicants must be endorsed by their local Rotary district, followed by an interview and further assessment.
4. Notification: Once all applications are reviewed, successful candidates are notified and assigned to a specific Rotary Peace Center.

The application cycle typically opens in February and closes in May, so early preparation is essential.

FAQs

How competitive is the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program?

The Rotary Peace Fellowship is highly competitive, with hundreds of applicants from around the world. Rotary selects around 130 fellows each year, making it essential to present a strong application that showcases your experience, passion for peacebuilding, and commitment to Rotary’s mission.

Is the Rotary Peace Fellowship fully funded?

Yes, the Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully funded program. It covers all expenses, including tuition, room and board, travel, and field study costs, making it one of the most attractive opportunities for aspiring peacebuilders.

What degree or certificate can I earn through the fellowship?

Fellows have the option to pursue either a master’s degree in fields such as international relations, peace studies, conflict resolution, or a professional development certificate for mid-career professionals. The certificate is typically shorter and more tailored to experienced individuals seeking to enhance their skills in peacebuilding.

Can non-Rotarians apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship?

Yes, non-Rotarians are eligible to apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship. The program is open to applicants from diverse backgrounds, regardless of Rotary membership. What matters most is the applicant’s dedication to peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

Do I need to have prior experience in peace and conflict resolution to apply?

Yes, applicants are expected to have relevant professional experience. For the master’s degree, candidates should have at least three years of experience in peace or conflict-related work. For the professional development certificate, a minimum of five years of relevant experience is required.

What is the duration of the Rotary Peace Fellowship Program?

The master’s degree program typically lasts 15-24 months, depending on the university and curriculum. The professional development certificate program lasts for three months and is designed for mid-career professionals.

Where are the Rotary Peace Centers located?

Rotary Peace Centers are located in prestigious universities around the world, including the USA, Japan, the UK, Australia, Sweden, and Thailand.

Conclusion:

The Rotary Peace Fellowship Program is an exceptional opportunity for individuals committed to making a difference in the world. With fully-funded scholarships, world-class education, and access to a global network of peacebuilders, this program equips you with the tools you need to become a leader in peace and conflict resolution.