OHIO-Gawande College Partnership Support Program in India
The OHIO-Gawande College Partnership Support Program provides faculty, staff and graduate students at µÛÍõ»áËù with the opportunity to engage in collaborative research, teaching and service projects at Gawande College (GSG) in India.
Gawande College () is a dynamic educational institution in India, committed to empowering students and communities through education, research and sustainable development.
This initiative fosters mutual learning, academic exchange, and community engagement between µÛÍõ»áËù and Gawande College, enhancing institutional capacity and addressing critical regional challenges.
Successful applicants will travel to Gawande College to carry out their proposed projects, contributing to long-term collaboration and sustainable development in the region.
Program Dates
Program dates are flexible throughout the year, depending on the project.
Focus Areas for Proposals
Applicants are encouraged to design projects that align with the OHIO-GSG partnership’s goals of fostering research, education and sustainable development. Proposals should support community-driven initiatives and build on existing collaborations between OHIO, Gawande College, and international partners.
Projects may focus on one or more of the following areas:
- Indigenous Technical Knowledge: Document traditional farming practices in villages to preserve local agricultural wisdom and inform future sustainability efforts.
- Mental Health: Assess depression, anxiety and suicide risk among farmer households, contributing to community-based mental health interventions.
- Water Management: Study irrigation water use and allocation in Yavatmal District to develop strategies for sustainable water access.
- EcoGather: Develop practical courses in agroecological farming and food systems thinking, supporting regenerative agriculture and food security.
- Oral History Archive: Create a digital archive of farmer testimonies, documenting agricultural experiences through audio, video, photography and text.
Preference may be given to proposals that integrate multiple focus areas, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and provide long-term benefits to Gawande College and its surrounding communities.
Venues and Logistics
Located in Umarkhed, Maharashtra, Gawande College serves as a hub for agricultural innovation, environmental conservation, and community outreach, making it an ideal location for collaborative projects addressing regional challenges.
Successful applicants will be based at Gawande College, where they will engage in research, teaching, and community development initiatives. Accommodation will be provided on campus, and participants will have access to essential resources to support their work.
Travel and Accommodations
- Flights: Round-trip airfare from Columbus to Nagpur, India.
- Accommodation: Provided at Gawande College campus housing.
- Transportation: Local transport to and from Nagpur airport, as well as for project-related activities, will be arranged by Gawande College.
- Meals: Provided during the stay at Gawande College. Additional personal expenses may apply.
- Connectivity: Internet and mobile service are available, but participants are encouraged to minimize online activity to fully immerse in the experience.
Entry and Exit Requirements
- Visa: U.S. citizens do not require a visa for stays under 90 days for academic purposes.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the program end date.
- Health and Safety: Participants should be up to date on routine vaccinations and carry any necessary medications.
- Cultural Awareness: Participants should respect local customs, dress modestly in academic and community settings, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities. Avoid discussing political topics on social media during the program.
Applicant Qualifications
Applicants must be:
- A full-time faculty, researcher, or administrative staff member at µÛÍõ»áËù, OR
- A full-time graduate student in good standing at µÛÍõ»áËù.
Budget, Costs and Funding Opportunities
Awards of up to $4,000 per applicant will be considered for each annual funding cycle.
- Airfare to Nagpur, India
- Project materials and research expenses
- Special travel needs or interpretation services
- Additional lodging or meals beyond those provided by Gawande College
Applicants must submit a detailed budget proposal outlining expenses and other funding sources (if applicable).
Program Aims
The program aims to:
- Support faculty, staff, and graduate student projects that strengthen research and teaching at Gawande College.
- Enhance educational infrastructure, including research, career development, and community engagement.
- Promote mutual learning and collaboration between OHIO and Gawande College faculty, students, and the surrounding communities.
- Contribute to the development of Gawande College as a regional leader in education.
- Increase awareness of India and Gawande College within the µÛÍõ»áËù community.
Application Process
Applicants must submit a proposal including:
- Cover Page – Applicant details, proposed travel dates, and signed commitment statement.
- Introduction – Academic background and motivation for applying.
- Project Description – A detailed plan for how the project aligns with program goals, expected outcomes, and potential collaborators at Gawande College.
- Scholarly Project (if applicable) – Description of any research component and its relevance to the OHIO-GSG partnership.
- Sustainability Plan – How the project’s impact will be maintained long-term.
- Knowledge Dissemination Plan – Plans for sharing project findings with OHIO, Gawande College, and broader academic communities.
- Budget and Justification – A breakdown of anticipated expenses.
Ready to Make an Impact?
Faculty, staff and graduate students interested in making a global impact and contributing to the OHIO-GSG College partnership are encouraged to apply.