Access to Borders: Scholarship Program for Journalists on Migration in Cape Verde
The CERC (Centre for Migration Studies) Journalism Fellowship Program at Toronto Metropolitan University, 2026 edition, represents a unique opportunity for journalists from around the world, including talented Cape Verdean professionals, to deepen their understanding and effectively report on the complexities of migration. This initiative, focused on researching and presenting robust and well-informed narratives, is particularly relevant to Cape Verde, a country with a rich history intertwined with the diaspora and the contemporary challenges of human mobility.
Migration, whether driven by the search for better economic opportunities, geopolitical conflicts, or climate change, is one of the greatest global issues of our time. Understanding the context, causes, and consequences of migration is crucial to building bridges of understanding and informing the public about the impacts of this dynamic. In this context, the CERC Fellowship Program offers a privileged space for journalists to develop their skills, enrich their perspectives, and produce high-impact journalistic work on migration issues.
Participation in the program provides selected participants with a range of benefits. Fellows will have access to mentorship from internationally renowned experts in migration studies, including social scientists, experienced journalists, and human rights advocates. They will be invited to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, fostering the exchange of ideas and collaboration with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and experiences. In addition, the program typically offers financial support to cover travel, living, and reporting expenses.
For Cape Verdean journalists, this grant represents a valuable opportunity to increase their nation's visibility in the global discussion on migration. Cape Verde, with its strategic geographic location, its history of emigration and immigration, and the particular challenges it faces in the context of climate change and economic instability, offers fertile ground for producing meaningful and relevant reporting. Through the program, Cape Verdean journalists can document the experiences of migrants, analyze government policies, investigate the underlying causes of migration, and promote a constructive dialogue on this crucial topic.
The application process for the program is generally competitive, but accessible. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in migration issues, submit well-conceived reporting proposals, and have a proven professional track record. It is crucial that Cape Verdean journalists prepare carefully for their application, selecting relevant topics, developing original research proposals, and demonstrating proficiency in English, the program's working language.
The success of the program will depend, to a large extent, on the ability to bring together a diverse group of journalists, representing different regions and perspectives. The participation of Cape Verdean journalists will significantly enrich the program, bringing an important voice and unique experience to the discussion. By actively engaging in this process, Cape Verde can not only strengthen its position as a relevant player in discussions on migration, but also contribute to more comprehensive and informed journalism on one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century. The ability to report accurately, sensitively, and in depth on migration issues is an invaluable asset to our societies, and this program offers a platform for this to be achieved.
Remember that the scholarship program for 2026 has not yet officially opened applications, but pay attention to the dates and requirements published by Toronto Metropolitan University. Generally, the announcements are released well in advance, allowing interested parties to prepare their applications calmly and thoroughly.
Estimated Application Deadline: 1-11-2025
Application link: https://www.torontomu.ca/cerc-migration/opportunities/journalism-fellowship/
