The Urban Climate Fellowship Program application is open to Red Cross Red Crescent National Society staff and volunteers. This virtual three-month fellowship helps them gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to address urban climate issues effectively.

This fellowship focuses on foundational knowledge of urban systems, climate change, risk identification, and adaptation strategies. Comprising six weekly modules, each hour-long session includes lectures, interactive discussions, and activities, with midterm and final assignments to apply learnings in real-world contexts.

Global urban experts will share practical experiences to inspire action. Classes will adapt to the cohort’s needs and offer optional discussions. The fellowship, supported by the Red Cross Red Crescent (RCRC) Climate Centre, the American Red Cross, and RCRC National Societies, ensures a collaborative learning experience.

Graduates will receive certificates and join IFRC’s Urban Technical working groups for ongoing technical support and collaboration.

Key Details

• Application Deadline: January 13, 2025
• Program Duration: March-May 2025
• Organizers: Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, American Red Cross, RCRC National Societies
• Eligible Countries: Global (priority for Africa, Asia, and Latin America)
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: RCRC National Society staff and volunteers in urban branches
• Focus Area: Urban planning, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and community resilience
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Online Program

Benefits

By participating in this fellowship program, fellows will benefit as follows:

• Access to expert knowledge on urban systems, climate change, and risk adaptation.
• Participation in six interactive learning modules led by global experts
• Opportunity to connect with urban professionals and peers worldwide
• Certificate of completion and virtual graduation ceremony.
• Invitation to join IFRC’s Urban Technical working groups for continued support
• There is no cost for participation; internet and computer access are the only requirements.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be affiliated with a Red Cross Red Crescent National Society (especially encouraged from Africa, Asia, and Latin America).
• All applicants must submit a letter of recommendation from their National Society headquarters.
• Hold an undergraduate degree.
• Have a minimum of two years of experience in community resilience, urban planning, climate change, or urban disaster risk reduction.
• Possess experience in training programs for community organizations.
• Be proficient in English for course participation and assignments.
• Have access to a computer and internet for virtual sessions.
• Demonstrate ability to work independently and in teams.

Fellowship Modules

The fellowship consists of six modules designed to build practical knowledge and skills for addressing urban climate challenges:

• Module 1: Foundations of Urban Spaces
  • Urban systems and governance
  • Urban development planning
• Module 2: Climate in Urban Contexts
  • Understanding weather and climate
  • Climate change impacts in urban areas
• Module 3: Engaging Stakeholders and Understanding Risks
  • Collaborating with stakeholders
  • Exploring urban risks
• Module 4: Urban Adaptation
  • Introduction to Adaptation Strategies
  • Global examples of adaptation
• Module 5: Integrating Adaptation into Response and Recovery
  • SPHERE standards in urban settings
  • Adaptation during recovery efforts
• Module 6: Turning Knowledge into Action
  • Coalition building and resource mobilization
  • Using the Urban Action Kit to take action
  • Graduation ceremony

How to Apply?

• Visit the official Urban Climate Fellowship application page using the link below.
• Complete the online application form.
• Upload required documents, including a recommendation letter and proof of affiliation.
• Apply by January 13, 2025.

Apply Now

For questions or further information, refer to the program’s official page.

Check More Fellowships:

Youth in Development Fellowship for International Applicants

The Alpine Fellowship Visual Arts Prize 2025 (£3,000 Cash Grant)

Doctoral Fellowship in Landscape and Urban Studies at ETH Zurich