How to Apply for the South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP)

The South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP) is open for applications. If you are a mid-career journalist looking to improve your skills and knowledge, apply. The South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP) is a great opportunity for journalists from South Asia. The fellowship is to help them improve their skills, network with global peers, and explore critical issues, politics and society.

If interested in the fellowship, you must go through the eligibility criteria and application process. You must ensure you understand the application process and submit a quality application. This guide will help you make the process smooth. If you know someone in the field who would be interested in the fellowship, do share with them.

You can also explore other fellowship opportunities offered by Chevening. It also offers fully funded scholarships for one-year Master’s degrees in the UK.

What is the South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP)?

The Chevening South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP) is hosted by the University of Westminster and funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. This fellowship is for mid-career journalists from South Asian countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

The program provides an in-depth exploration of the media’s role in governance. It aims to focus on how democratic processes are held accountable through journalism.These countries in South Asia are going through frequent changes in the democratic process. The fellowship will help fellows to understand the causes of the issues and improve their capabilities.

Program Structure

The SAJP is an 8-week fellowship titled ‘Good Governance in a Changing World: the Media, Politics and Society’. During this time, fellows will:

• Engage in a curriculum: The program explores the relationship between media and governance. Moreover, understands journalists’ contributions to holding government bodies and political systems accountable.
• Participate in lectures and discussions: Fellows will learn from UK academics, media professionals, and political figures.
• Visit institutions: The program includes visits to media organizations, political institutions, and other bodies.
• Organize a symposium: In the final week, fellows will collaborate to organize a symposium on a topic of their choice. This will help them to apply the knowledge and skills they’ve gained throughout the program.

Benefits of the SAJP Fellowship

The fellowship includes several key benefits that make it a fully funded opportunity:

• Full program fees: The fellowship covers all educational costs linked with the program.
• Living Cost: Fellows receive a stipend to cover living expenses during their stay in the UK.
• Return airfare: The program provides economy-class airfare from your home country to the UK and back.

Eligibility Criteria for South Asia Journalism Fellowship

To apply for the South Asia Journalism Fellowship, you must fulfill the following criteria:

• Be a citizen of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives. Note: Applications from Afghanistan are currently under review.
• At least seven years of work experience in journalism, particularly in the political or economic sectors.
• A postgraduate degree or equivalent professional training/experience is required.
• You must have a good working knowledge of English, which will be assessed through your application and interview.
• After the fellowship, you must return to your country of citizenship.
• Applicants should not hold British or dual British citizenship.
• You should not be an employee, former employee, or relative of an employee of His Majesty’s Government or related entities.

Application Process for South Asia Journalism fellowship

To apply for the Fellowship, follow these steps:

• Prepare Your Documents Carefully: Prepare your academic transcripts, professional experience records, and proof of English proficiency.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form on the Chevening website (Link Below)
• Submit Required Documents: Upload all necessary documents, including your resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining your career goals and how the fellowship aligns with them.
• Meet the Deadline: Submit your application by 12:00 GMT on 10 October 2024.

Selection Process

The selection process includes several stages:

• Applications are first reviewed to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria.
• Independent committees assess eligible applications and rank them based on merit.
• Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews at British embassies or high commissions.
• Successful candidates are notified, and preparations for the fellowship begin.

Why Apply for the SAJP Fellowship?

The South Asia Journalism Fellowship can change your life. It helps you expand your professional network. Other participants from South Asia and the UK will share their own experiences with you. Moreover, you will gain a global perspective on the issues and media practices.

You can apply these practices to your work. It will enrich your journalism. UK vibrant media will help you change yourself and broaden your horizon.  This fully funded fellowship offers unparalleled access to resources, networks, and learning opportunities that can significantly impact your career. Don’t miss this chance to advance your skills and make a difference in the world of journalism.

Apply before the deadline on 10 October 2024, and take the first step towards this transformative experience.

Overview of South Asia Journalism Fellowship