Objectives
The Olive Tree Programme seeks to:
- Attract gifted young people (20-27 years old) from the region, the future leaders and professionals of the two communities
- Support them so they benefit to the full from higher education
- Facilitate dialogue and greater understanding of what conflict means
- Challenge the scholars to develop their leadership and thence communication skills
- Foster a growing and lively network of alumni and scholars
To achieve its objectives, the Olive Tree Programme selects applicants who combine academic ability with the stamina and determination to see through a very demanding and often difficult experience, over three years in London. A commitment to fulfill all the academic requirements of their individuel degree course and to participate fully in the parallel programme is essential.
Each scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation and a contribution towards living costs during term time, as well as one return airfare per year.
The Programme combines four elements:
- A Bachelors' degree course in one of the disciplines taught at City University London which could be in social science, business, journalism, law, engineering or computer systems.
- Active involvement in the parallel, extra-curricular programme of workshops, lectures, field trips, retreat exercises and cultural pursuits including:
- exploration and discussion of the history, politics, economy, demography and ecology of the Middle East in global context, with guest lecturers
- cultural, creative and outdoor activities in and around London
- field trips and retreats in England and Ireland with the Irish peace centres consortium
- development of communication and facilitation techniques
- An outreach and alumni programme to expose scholars to different career options, encourage work experience and build a supportive network for them, the alumni and contacts in the UK and the region.
- Discussion Forum and related events to enable informed discussion of Middle East political, religious and security concerns within and beyond the academic community.