The British Council and John Smith Memorial Trust are inviting applications to participate in the John Smith Fellowship Programme 2003. Applications for Fellowships are invited from the following countries: Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine. The Programme aims to strengthen and deepen democratic awareness and leadership through a 6-week course in the United Kingdom combining classroom study, work placements and visits. The "ideal" candidate will be aged 25-35, working in politics, local administration or civil society, with a track record of concern for tackling poverty and promoting social justice. Good written and spoken English is essential. The John Smith Fellowship Programme is a partnership between the John Smith Memorial Trust, the British Council and the Department for International Development. The Fellowship Programme will last for 6 weeks, from June 1st to July 12th 2003, Fellows are expected to produce a personal plan of action to be carried out when they return home. Six months later, a Follow-Up Conference in one of the Fellowship countries brings all Fellows together to report on their activities and compare progress. The deadline for submission of application forms is 24 January 2003. Selection of candidates will be concluded by 30 March 2003. Check the British Council website in your country for details.