Symbiosis International University in Pune has achieved a significant milestone with the inauguration of South Asia's first Rotary Peace Centre. This prestigious centre will offer up to 40 fully-funded fellowships for a year-long postgraduate diploma program in Peace and Development Studies, marking a transformative opportunity for professionals dedicated to conflict resolution and societal progress.
A Prestigious Selection for a Global Initiative
Symbiosis was selected as one of only two institutions globally to host this program, chosen from a competitive pool of 17 applicants. The other selected institution is located in South Korea, highlighting the international recognition of Symbiosis's capabilities in peace education. This program is part of a global network, currently offered at eight Rotary Peace Centres worldwide, and its establishment in Pune underscores India's growing role in fostering peace and development dialogues.
Targeting Mid-Career Professionals for Impactful Change
The fellowship program has been meticulously designed for mid-career professionals aged between 35 and 45 years. These individuals are actively engaged in various sectors of peace and development, either within Asia or working with Asian communities globally. The curriculum aims to equip them with advanced skills and perspectives to address contemporary challenges in conflict resolution and policy-making.
In response to inquiries about how the course prepares scholars for modern dilemmas, such as international legal disputes or domestic issues like freedom of expression, Professor Anita Patankar of Symbiosis provided insightful commentary. She emphasized that the program fosters incremental yet profound change among policymakers. "Education looks at slow change but very deep and abiding change," she explained, citing an example of a judge who, after completing a similar fellowship, reevaluated her judicial role with renewed empathy and understanding.
Transforming Perspectives to Overcome Systemic Barriers
Professor Patankar further elaborated on the transformative potential of the program. "The kind of people who apply for this programme are Ministers, Collectors, Educators, Judges. The idea is that they will come here and the programme will transform their way of looking at what is conflict. These are the people who will go into the system. Today the system is becoming a barrier for many changes," she stated. This highlights the program's goal to empower leaders who can navigate and reform systemic obstacles to peace and development.
Application Details and Future Prospects
Applications for the Rotary Peace Fellowship at Symbiosis International University will be open from February 1 to May 15, 2026. This fully-funded opportunity covers tuition, accommodation, and other expenses, making it accessible to a diverse group of professionals. Interested candidates can find more information about Rotary Peace Fellowship programs and application procedures through official channels.
The establishment of this centre in Pune not only enhances the city's academic landscape but also positions India as a key player in global peace initiatives. By nurturing a cohort of skilled peacebuilders, the program aims to contribute to sustainable development and conflict resolution across Asia and beyond.
