Ford Foundation, International Fellowships Program (IFP)

An innovative education offering at the East-West Center, the International Fellowships Program (IFP) targets exceptional individuals from marginalized populations in developing nations. Part of a world-wide effort designed and supported through the Ford Foundation, IFP Fellows are drawn from social groups outside metropolitan centers that, historically, have had limited access to higher education and opportunities to learn English. Often mid-career community leaders with a strong interest in issues of equity and justice, these students undertake graduate work in a range of academic disciplines. One of the East-West Center's contributions as a strategic partner of the International Fellowships Foundation has been to provide a pathway for otherwise highly qualified Fellows to achieve English language proficiency through intensive English language instruction at the University of Hawai'i, where they enter graduate degree programs once language proficiency is achieved.

IFP Fellows receive individually focused academic guidance and support from EWC staff and the opportunity to further their leadership abilities, cross-cultural skills, and knowledge of the Asia Pacific region while living and learning within the community of students and scholars at the Center. IFP Fellows plan to use their graduate education to become more effective leaders in their respective fields, further equitable development in their home countries, and promote greater economic and social justice worldwide.

For further information see the Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program website.