Prabha Fellowship Programme

The Prabha Fellowship, an initiative of the Hiteswar Saikia Foundation, takes its name from the Sanskrit word Prabha, meaning illumination. True to its name, the fellowship seeks to empower young minds with knowledge, research opportunities, and practical experience, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society. Through research into the socio-political and economic contexts of Assam, fellows will identify key challenges, generate insights, and formulate evidence-based solutions. This fellowship promotes intellectual and civic growth by motivating fellows to deepen their understanding of governance, public policy, democratic processes, and community matters. Fellows serve as catalysts for knowledge-based transformation by conducting fieldwork, analysing policy, and engaging directly with stakeholders.

Benefits of the Programme

  • Fellows will have the unique opportunity to interact closely with elected representatives, gaining firsthand insights into governance, policymaking, and the functioning of democratic institutions.
  • Fellows will receive dedicated guidance and mentorship to conduct in-depth research on critical issues.
  • The program offers practical exposure to understanding service delivery mechanisms.
  • Fellows will develop a comprehensive understanding of Assam’s sociopolitical and economic landscape, equipping them with the knowledge to address complex challenges.
  • The fellowship fosters both personal and professional growth, enhancing skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, and leadership.
  • Fellows may have the chance to publish their research findings in popular newspapers and other platforms, contributing to public discourse and increasing the visibility of their work.
  • By identifying and addressing key issues in Assam, fellows will play an active role in driving systemic change and creating a meaningful impact in the region.

Vacancy: 4 Fellows

Location: Assam

Remuneration:

A 6-month contract will be offered to the successful candidate. Regular travel for conducting research, stakeholder engagement, and fieldwork is a mandated component of the fellowship. The candidate will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 40,000.00. Additionally, travel allowances will be provided for public transport and two-wheeler use. Furthermore, upon successful completion of the fellowship, each participant will be awarded a certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for Prabha Fellows are as follows.:

  • Candidates must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the socio-political and economic contexts of Assam.
  • Applicants must hold a master’s degree in one or more of the following fields: Social Work, Sociology, Political Science, Mass Communication & Journalism, Economics and Law. Candidates with a master’s degree and an LLB are also eligible.
  • Proficiency in Assamese or other local languages is preferred for effective fieldwork and stakeholder engagement.
  • Prior experience in research, fieldwork, or related areas will be considered an added advantage.
  • Candidates must have access to a personal computer for conducting research and documentation.
  • Candidates must be willing to undertake regular travel within Assam as part of the programme.

Selection Process

The process involves the following stages:

  • All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee to assess the candidate’s academic qualifications, professional experience, and motivation for joining the fellowship. Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email.
  • Shortlisted candidates will participate in a virtual or in-person interview with the selection committee. The interview will assess the candidate’s understanding of Assam’s socio-political context, research aptitude, communication skills, and commitment to the fellowship’s objectives.
  • After the interview, the selection committee will evaluate candidates based on their overall performance, including their application, motivation letter, and interview.
  • Successful candidates will be notified via email and provided with further details about the fellowship.

How to apply

  • Applicants must submit their curriculum vitae via email to prabhafellowship@gmail.com
  • Submit a motivation letter (maximum 300 words) outlining your interest and alignment with the fellowship objectives

Key Dates

  • Application deadline: 2nd April 2025
  • Shortlist announcement: 7th April, 2025
  • Interviews: 12th—13th April, 2025
  • Selection announcement: 16th April, 2025
  • Fellowship Starts: 22nd April, 2025

To learn more, visit www.hiteswarsaikiafoundation.org

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