The Chevening South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP), hosted by the University of Westminster, is now open for applications for the 2025-2026 cohort!
The SAJP fellowship is a prestigious program designed for mid-career journalists from South Asian countries. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, the SAJP offers a unique opportunity for journalists to deepen their understanding of the role media plays in democratic processes, particularly within the contexts of South Asia and the UK.
Programme Overview
The fellowship spans eight weeks and is titled Good Governance in a Changing World: the Media, Politics and Society.” During this period, fellows will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that delves into how media holds democratic institutions accountable. The programme emphasizes the ethical dimensions of reporting and the broader political frameworks in which media operates.
Participants will explore the approaches taken by both the UK and South Asia in addressing key issues in governance and media, fostering discussions on international perspectives and policies. The fellowship also includes lectures, visits, and interactions with prominent UK academics, media professionals, and political figures. In the final week, fellows will have the chance to organize a symposium on a topic of their choosing.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Coverage of full programme fees
- Living expenses for the duration of the fellowship
- Cost coverage for economy airfare from fellow’s home country to the UK
- This fellowship is more than just an academic experience; it is a platform for intellectual exchange, offering participants a diverse and enriching environment to learn from each other’s experiences.
- Fellows will have the opportunity to explore new ideas, conduct in-depth research, and broaden their worldviews.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SAJP, applicants must:
- Be citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives
- Return to their country of citizenship after completing the fellowship
- Hold a postgraduate degree or have equivalent professional experience
- Have a minimum of seven years’ work experience
- Be mid-career journalists working in political or economic sectors
- Demonstrate a strong command of English
- Not hold British or dual-British citizenship
- Adhere to all guidelines and expectations of the fellowship
Application
- Applications for the 2025-2026 Chevening SAJP are open from August 6, 2024, until October 10, 2024.
- The selection process involves an initial eligibility sift, followed by assessments by independent reading committees, and interviews at British embassies or high commissions.
- The final results will be announced in January 2025, with the fellowship running from April/May to June 2025.
For more details and to apply, visit the official Chevening application page at https://asams.chevening.org/apply
OR
Learn more about the fellowship on Chevening’s website on https://www.chevening.org/fellowship/sajp/
FAQs
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Can I change my flight once booked?
Yes, but any additional costs will be your responsibility.
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Can I defer my fellowship?
Deferrals are only granted in exceptional circumstances. Review the fellowship terms for details.
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How much is the allowance during the fellowship?
All allowances will be specified in the final award letter.
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Can I bring my family to the UK for the fellowship?
The fellowship does not cover allowances for dependents, so fellows should arrange their plans if they want to bring their family members.