NIT Calicut Research Scholar Awarded Commonwealth Split-Site Doctoral Scholarship for UK Study
In a proud moment for the National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC), Fathima Zehba M.P., a research scholar in the Department of Architecture and Planning (DAP), has been selected for the esteemed 'Commonwealth Split-Site PhD Scholarship 2023.' Fathima's research in 'Gendered Mobility' within the realm of Urban Planning has garnered attention, earning her Rs 55 lakh scholarship to conduct further studies in the UK for one year.
Under Dr Mohammed Firoz C, Head, DAP, NIT Calicut, Fathima has been delving into the complexities of urban gender dynamics. Her academic journey will now extend to the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London, known for its top-ranking position in the QS World Ranking for Architecture.
The Commonwealth Split-site Scholarship, funded by the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) through the British Council, aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of deserving individuals by providing access to UK resources and expertise. Focused on developmental research, the scholarship supports high-quality doctoral candidates with the potential to become influential figures in their home countries.
Fathima's research, titled 'Women’s Mobility and Accessibility in Cities of the Global South,' aligns with the CSC Development theme of 'Access, inclusion, and opportunity.' She seeks to address the mobility challenges faced by underprivileged and low-income women workers in urban environments, with a particular focus on the city of Kochi, Kerala, India.
The scholarship package includes coverage for round-trip international travel, tuition fees at the University of £26,200, research contingencies of £5,000, study travel grants of £600, and a monthly stipend of £1,652. With a total worth exceeding 55 lakhs rupees, this scholarship is a testament to Fathima's academic prowess and she was selected from 400 applicants worldwide.
Fathima, a mother of two, has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her research, resulting in a published journal paper and two book chapters with renowned publishers Taylor and Francis and Springer, said Dr. Mohammed Firoz. Her work not only contributes to the field of gender studies but also exemplifies the balance between academic excellence and familial responsibilities, he added.
Fathima completed her masters in Urban Planning from NIT Calicut and degree in Architecture from T. K. M. College of Engineering, Kollam. She is the daughter of Mrs. P. K. Soudath and Late. M.P.A. Abdul Azeez Kurikkal. Her husband Shabil Paramban works as an operations manager at ‘Indus Go’ car rentals in Kochi.
Media Reports