Livio benedetto

scholarship

Sweden Emilia Romagna Network (SERN) is a non-profit organisation created between 2004 and 2005 with the aim of fostering cooperation between organisations from Italy and Sweden. It includes 58 members, most of which are local public bodies, collaborating in the fields of education, environment, local development, welfare policies and social inclusion.

Livio Benedetto has been one of the founders of the network and as international relations officer of the City Trollhättan (Sweden) has concretely contributed to Italian-Swedish collaboration and to the development of the network and its activities.

call for proposals

SERN is proud to announce the Livio Benedetto Scholarship, aimed at supporting graduate students and early-stage researchers focusing on comparative analysis in local public policymaking between Italy and Sweden. This scholarship is designed to foster innovative research that aligns with the SERN Strategy, focusing on education, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and digitalization.

Scholarship Overview

The scholarship will provide €3.000 to one outstanding graduate student or early-stage researcher. The funding is intended to support research work and cover costs associated with fieldwork activities. This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for students/researchers committed to exploring the similarities and differences in public policy approaches, frameworks, and outcomes between Italy and Sweden.

Research Focus

For the year 2024 applicants are invited to submit proposals that conduct a comparative analysis of local public policymaking and service provision in Italy and Sweden, specifically in the following area:

Quality Education

The proposed research can address one or more of the school education sectors (Early Childhood Education and Care, Compulsory Education, and Secondary Education)

The proposed research should aim to contribute insights into the comparative dynamics of policy development, implementation, and impact at local level, offering recommendations for enhancing local governance, policy effectiveness and quality of educational services.

Eligibility Criteria

Graduate, post-graduate or PhD student at a University in Sweden or Italy.
Interest in comparative analysis and the specified research areas.
Proficiency in English, with additional proficiency in Italian and/or Swedish considered an advantage.

Application Requirements

A detailed research proposal (max 2500 words) outlining the study’s objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and a clear plan for the fieldwork.
A budget outline specifying how the scholarship (max amount to be applied for 3.000,00 €) will be utilized to support the research and in particular fieldwork.
A current CV, including academic achievements, previous research experience, and relevant publications.
A letter of recommendation from a current or recent academic supervisor or a professional in the field of public policy.

Selection Criteria

Relevance and originality of the proposed research to the scholarship’s theme.
Feasibility of the research design and methodology.
Potential for the research to contribute to the knowledge base, policy development, and implementation strategies in the focus areas.
Applicant’s academic record and professional experience in related fields.

Submission Guidelines

Proposals must be submitted electronically in PDF format to scholarship@sern.eu no later than 15 September 2024. All documents should be in English. Late submissions will not be considered.

Scholarship Award Process

The successful applicant will be notified by 15 October 2024. The scholarship funds will be disbursed in two instalments: the first instalment equalling 50% of the amount requested upon award acceptance and the second and final instalment following the submission of a final report and the research work.

Inquiries

For further information or questions regarding the scholarship or application process, please contact info@sern.eu

Livio benedetto

scholarship

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SERN - Sweden Emilia Romagna Network