Open Society Foundations
Disability Rights Scholarship Program
Deadline for application: 2 November 2015

The Open Society Foundations work to build vibrant and tolerant societies whose governments are accountable and open to the participation of all people. Their Disability Rights Scholarship Program provides awards for master’s degree study to disability rights advocates, lawyers, and educators to develop new legislation, jurisprudence, policy, research, and scholarship to harness the innovations and opportunities offered by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
With the knowledge and networks gained through the program, fellows will deepen their understanding of international law and education, with a focus on disability rights, and gain the tools necessary to engage in a range of CRPD implementation strategies, such as:
• challenging rights violations in their home countries by drafting enforceable legislation consistent with the CRPD
• utilizing enforcement mechanisms set forth in the convention; taking forward disability rights litigation requesting CRPD-compliant remedies
• engaging in disability rights advocacy; and developing law, education, or other academic curricula informed by the CRPD. 

Inclusive Education Scholarships 
For 2016-2017, in addition to awards in law, we will offer two awards for master’s degrees in education, focusing on inclusive education. Participants will build a foundation in the principles, values, and practices of inclusive education, and upon completion of the program will be equipped to lead reform of education policy and practice in their home countries. We welcome applicants from various professional backgrounds.
Learn more and apply online.