The Rotary Foundation

AMBASSADORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Since 1947, when 18 “Rotary Fellows” left their homes in seven countries to study abroad, The Rotary Foundation has sent more than 35,000 Ambassadorial Scholars to help build understanding and peace in the global community.  The Ambassadorial scholarships program has grown to become the largest privately funded international scholarships program in the world.

This unofficial “diplomatic corps” of young men and women excels not only in scholarship but in meeting humanitarian needs.  Moreover, they have gone on to serve in the United Nations and other international organisations, government embassies, multinational corporations, and as doctors, teachers, and other professionals who help instil a broader world view in their communities.

LET THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH ...

As the 21st century dawned, Rotarians realised that their commitment to aid the cause of peace was needed more than ever.  Looking ahead, The Rotary Foundation established in conjunction with seven universities from around the world, including the University of Queensland, the Rotary Centres for International Studies in peace and conflict resolution.  The Rotary Centres offer individuals who are committed to peace and co-operation the opportunity to pursue a fully funded, two-year master’s level degree or certificate in a field such as international studies, peace studies or conflict resolution.  The first class in 2002 included 70 scholars from 35 countries.

University of Melbourne psychology graduate and researcher Ms Tania Miletic become Victoria's first ever recipient of a Rotary World Peace Scholarship.   As a Rotary World Peace Scholar Ms Miletic is spending two years at the International Christian University (ICU) in Tokyo, undertaking a Masters degree program in international studies relating to peace and conflict resolution.  Tania was nominated by the Rotary Club of Melbourne.  District 9800 has successfully nominated two peace scholars since the program began.