A Decade of IFP Fellows in International Development Studies

Abstract

This chapter outlines the experience of the University of Birmingham in the UK in managing and teaching International Fellowships Program (IFP) Fellows. It specifically focuses on the major department involved in teaching the Fellows, the International Development Department (IDD). At the same time, it is also written from a personal point of view since I have been involved in teaching and supervising Fellows from the beginning of the program. IDD has been engaged with the Fellows for the lifetime of IFP, and has built a very positive relationship both with the Fellows and also with the program’s management and support structures. The nature of this relationship is a major focus of my discussion, since I believe that a shared set of values and approaches have been critical in supporting the Fellows in achieving their own aims and also the aims of the program on their return to their own countries.