Application open for the ODI Fellowship Scheme(Fully-funded and open to all nationalities)
The ODI is a globally respected think tank dedicated to inspiring action against injustice and inequality. Through research, convening, and advocacy, ODI generates impactful ideas for global prosperity and sustainability.
About ODI and Its Objectives: ODI spearheads new approaches and agendas to foster transformative change and cultivate resilient, equitable prosperity worldwide. The organization targets four overarching global challenges:
- Shaping the future of global cooperation.
- Addressing the climate crisis.
- Promoting a fairer economic order.
- Advancing human rights and peace.
For inquiries, contact odi@odi.org, and for those related to the ODI Fellowship Scheme, reach out to fellows@odi.org.
Understanding the ODI Fellowship Scheme: Initiated in 1963, the ODI Fellowship Scheme has since engaged over 1,300 fellows across 50 governments and international bodies. The scheme offers early-career economists and statisticians the opportunity to serve as civil servants in low- and middle-income countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Western Balkans.
Objectives of the Scheme: The primary objectives of the ODI Fellowship Scheme include providing highly skilled professionals to address skill gaps in host institutions while offering fellows valuable experience within diverse bureaucratic settings. The scheme operates based on the needs of partner countries and enjoys significant demand from governments.
Benefits to Host Institutions:
- Addressing country-specific needs effectively.
- Tailoring solutions to fit institutional strengths.
- Transferring essential skills and knowledge to local counterparts.
Benefits to ODI Fellows:
- Personal and professional development.
- International exchange opportunities.
- Future career prospects in various sectors.
- Total compensation net of tax is approximately £32,600 per annum in the first year and £34,600 in the second year.
- The compensation is inclusive of a housing allowance that varies according to cost of living in-country.
Expected qualifications and skills
Fellowships vary from role to role and country to country, but all require a combination of the following experience and personal qualities.
Qualifications
- The ODI Fellowship Scheme is open to candidates of all nationalities who have a master’s degree or PhD in economics, statistics or a related field.
- Suitable specialised qualifications at postgraduate level include but aren’t limited to agricultural economics, environmental economics, international economics, health economics, development economics, and econometrics and statistics.
- For those studying for a postgraduate degree at the time of application, the award of a fellowship is conditional upon the successful completion of the postgraduate degree.
Applications are strengthened by a demonstrable interest in public policy, relevant work or voluntary experience and language proficiency (with English essential and French particularly advantageous) and strong IT skill.
Placement and Contributions: ODI Fellows are placed across various government ministries, agencies, and research organizations, working on diverse projects aimed at strengthening internal systems, influencing policy, and fostering international cooperation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How are Fellows paid? Fellows are employed and paid by the institutions hosting them. They receive a salary equivalent to what would be payable to a locally recruited national with similar qualifications and experience. Additionally, Fellows receive a monthly supplement and housing allowance from ODI.
How are the posts and the scheme funded? The cost of each fellowship is shared between the host government and ODI. Various funders support the scheme, including the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and other organizations. Some governments fund the entire cost of Fellows themselves.
How are administrative and financial responsibilities shared between governments and ODI? Fellows are selected by ODI but become employees of the governments or public bodies where they work. The local employer is responsible for paying salaries, providing office accommodations, and ensuring conditions of service. ODI oversees administration, including monthly payments, flights, and medical insurance.
How can a government become part of the scheme? Interested governments must make a formal request to ODI, accompanied by a clear job description and a commitment to providing a local salary and other benefits equivalent to those offered to local employees. ODI conducts scoping visits to assess suitability and conditions for hosting Fellows.
How are Fellows matched to placements? Representatives from ODI conduct annual placement visits to participating countries, discussing future requirements with host institutions. Governments submit requests for Fellows with job descriptions, and candidates are allocated to roles based on the satisfaction of both host institutions and candidates.
Application Information: The application deadline for the ODI Fellowship Scheme is April 30, 2024. Applicants are required to submit their applications by this date for consideration. Late submissions will not be accepted. To apply, Visit the Official Webpage of the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) Fellowship Scheme
Conclusion: The ODI Fellowship Scheme stands as a beacon of international cooperation and capacity building, fostering positive change in governments and institutions worldwide. Aspiring economists and statisticians are encouraged to seize this opportunity for personal growth and meaningful contribution to global development.
Contact Information: For further details, visit ODI Fellowship Scheme or contact fellows@odi.org.
