I. Program Overview
The Scaling Social Cohesion is an initiative with the Amanah Leadership Institute for Social Cohesion to develop systems to scale up social cohesion initiatives across countries. This program seeks to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, regions, and sectors to share best practices, explore innovative solutions, and co-create scaleup mechanisms for existing social cohesion initiatives.
II. Program Objectives
Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and innovative strategies in the field of social cohesion among practitioners.
Capacity Building: Enhance the skills and expertise of fellows, enabling them to design, implement, and evaluate effective social cohesion initiatives.
Global Network Building: Foster a worldwide network of professionals dedicated to advancing social cohesion and intercultural understanding.
Cross-Sector Collaboration: Promote collaboration and knowledge transfer between government, civil society, academia, and private sector stakeholders.
Problem-Driven Iterative Adaptation: Prototype new models and pathways given existing resources, authorizations, and constituencies.
III. Program Components
The Transnational Social Cohesion Fellowship Program will consist of the following components:
International Workshops: Two in-person, immersive workshops conducted at different locations to promote cross-cultural learning. These workshops will feature expert speakers, interactive sessions, and site visits to exemplary social cohesion projects.
Online Learning Platform: A virtual platform for ongoing collaboration, sharing resources, and participating in webinars, discussion forums, and peer mentoring.
Mentorship: Each fellow will be matched with an experienced mentor in the field of social cohesion to provide guidance and support throughout the program.
Action Research Projects: Fellows will work on practical projects related to social cohesion in their home countries or regions, applying the knowledge gained during the program.
Cultural Exchange: Social and cultural activities to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures, fostering a sense of global community among the fellows.
IV. Eligibility Criteria
Fellows will be selected based on the following criteria:
Proven commitment to social cohesion and intercultural understanding.
A minimum of 3 years of experience in related fields.
Demonstrated leadership and impact in their respective communities or organizations.
Proficiency in English (the program's primary language).
V. Application and Selection Process
Open Call for Applications: Announce the program and invite applications from eligible candidates globally.
Application Review: An expert panel will review applications based on eligibility criteria and program objectives.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed to assess their suitability for the program.
Selection: The final cohort of fellows will be selected based on the interview results.
VI. Program Duration
The Transnational Social Cohesion Fellowship Program will be a one-year initiative, including the two workshops and ongoing online activities.
VII. Funding and Support
Fellows will receive financial support to cover travel, accommodation, and program-related expenses during the workshops. The program will seek funding from governmental, international, and private sector sources to ensure sustainability.
VIII. Program Partnerships
The program will seek partnerships with government agencies, international organizations, universities, NGOs, and corporations with a shared interest in promoting social cohesion.
IX. Impact Evaluation
The program will conduct pre-and post-program evaluations to measure the impact on fellows' knowledge, skills, and the effectiveness of their social cohesion initiatives.
X. Sustainability and Alumni Network
Upon completing the program, fellows will become part of the Transnational Social Cohesion Fellowship Alumni Network, fostering continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
XI. Conclusion
The Transnational Social Cohesion Fellowship Program aims to create a global community of practice dedicated to enhancing social cohesion and intercultural understanding. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and building a network of dedicated professionals, this program will contribute to a more cohesive and harmonious world.