Request for Proposal For Research Grants For University Students

Request for proposals for Research Grants for University Students Grants amount and disbursement modality: 5,000 EUR (all inclusive) per research study produced. Funds will be transferred in tranches, based on submission of deliverables and progress updates the kind of deliverables and grant timeline will be defined upon selection. Call for Proposals PoY-2025 Research Grants for University Students The Power of Youth: Unlocking Potential for Inter- and Intra-Communal Conflict Prevention in Lebanon 1. Project Background Lebanon is currently experiencing profound social, economic, and political crises that have deeply fragmented its social fabric and heightened inter- and intra-community tensions. Decades of conflict, compounded by regional upheavals, refugee influxes, economic collapse, and systemic governance challenges, have created an environment of social dislocation and mistrust among diverse communitiesincluding Lebanese, Palestinian, Syrians, refugees, migrants, and other marginalized groups. The erosion of social cohesion, participation, and civic engagement has further entrenched divisions, making conflict prevention and social stability critical priorities for Lebanons future. In this context, Mada Association, Jafra Foundation, and WeWorld are currently implementing The Power of Youth: Unlocking Potential for Inter- and Intra-Communal Conflict Prevention in Lebanon, a project funded by the European Union. The project aims to contribute to conflict prevention and peacebuilding in Lebanon through youth mobilization, by empowering youth and strengthening their role as active agents of change in their communities. Its primary outcome is to increase the individual and collective capacities and participation of Youth-Led Civil Society Organizations and Groups in conflict prevention and resolutions initiatives to foster inter-and intra-communal peace in Greater Beirut and Tripoli. 2. Research Scope Through this call for proposals, the project seeks to support Lebanese university students, both individuals and groups, in conducting original, community-based qualitative studies that deepen understanding of social frictions, community narratives, and drivers of conflict or cohesion in Lebanon, specifically in the Greater Beirut and Tripoli areas (please refer to section n.3 for the target areas). The overarching goal of the project is to empower young people and civil society groups to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding and social cohesion by informing, inspiring, and influencing efforts to reduce communal tensions and promote peaceful coexistence. A key component of this effort is to generate robust, community-informed evidence through qualitative research that explores community dynamics, perceptions, and social tensions. The research findings will serve as vital inputs for informing advocacy initiatives and fostering dialogue among diverse communities. By prioritizing participatory and scientifically rigorous qualitative research, this initiative seeks to promote locally grounded solutions, amplify youth voices, and strengthen Lebanons resilience against ongoing and future social fractures. Specifically, the objectives are to: Generate knowledge on community dynamics, social tensions, and cohesion through qualitative research. Enhance youth research capacity and foster participatory and community-engaged approaches. Support evidence-based policy and community interventions that promote peace and social stability. Encourage innovative and scientifically rigorous approaches to understanding inter- and intra-community relations. Foster dialogue among different communities residing in Lebanon, including Lebanese, Palestinian, Syrians, refugees, migrants, and other marginalized groups. 3. Target areas for the development of the study The qualitative research studies must cover the following areas targeted by the project: Beirut and Greater Beirut, Shatila camp, and Burj El Barajneh camp. Tripoli, Minieh, Akkar, El Mina, El Kalamoun, Koura, Beddawi camp, and Nahr El Bared camp. 4. Research Methodology While all qualitative research proposals aligned with conflict prevention, peacebuilding and social cohesion are eligible, topics of particular interest include: Ethnographic studies exploring community tensions, interactions, and perceptions between different ethnic, religious, or refugee groups. Case studies of community-led initiatives promoting social cohesion or conflict mitigation. Innovative approaches to understanding social frictions, narratives, identity, and perceptions affecting intra- and inter-community relations. Analysis of community narratives and discourses that reveal local drivers of conflict or cohesion. Action research involving youth and community members. 5. Expected Research Outcomes The research is expected to provide a rich, context-specific understanding of community perceptions, dynamics, and tensions. Findings will offer evidence to inform communication, advocacy, and interventions that promote social cohesion and community resilience. 6. Expected Research Timeline The expected timeline to produce the research is set at six (6) months following the signature of the sub-grant agreement, in case of award. 7. Eligibility Criteria This call is open to: University students (Bachelors, Masters, or PhD level) currently enrolled in Lebanese universities (from the faculties of Sociology, Anthropology, Political science or related field studies, such as peace and conflict studies, public relation studies, migration and refugee studies, urban studies, social psychology studies, etc.). Applications can be submitted by individuals or groups of students (up to six members) with a demonstrated interest in the themes of the project. 8. What the project offers: Two grants will be disbursed to two students and/or groups of students. Grants amount and disbursement modality: 5,000 EUR (all inclusive) per research study produced. Funds will be transferred in tranches, based on submission of deliverables and progress updates the kind of deliverables and grant timeline will be defined upon selection. Support: Grantees will receive ongoing guidance and mentorship from the project team if needed. How to apply 9. Application Process and Submission Requirements To apply for the research grant, we invite you to submit the following mandatory documents (please find Annexes A and B in the attachments): Annex A Research Proposal, including: Research title and abstract Research objectives and questions Methodology and timeline Budget request Expected outcomes of the research and relevance to conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and social cohesion Motivation and background CV(s) of the applicant(s) clearly outlining studies and previous experience if group application, please submit for all the group members. Proof of enrollment in a Lebanese University (i.e., certificate of enrollment, transcript of records, etc) - if group application, please submit for all the group members. Annex B Letter of Intent for the Research students group (only for group applications) Applications must be submitted in English via email to: [email protected]. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. The deadline for the submission of applications is October 31st, 2025, at 6pm. 10. Evaluation Criteria Proposals evaluation will be based on: Students enrollment in university and the relevance of background studies. Relevance of the proposed study to the thematic areas of social cohesion, peacebuilding, and conflict prevention. Scientific quality and methodological approach (community engagement and participatory approach). Feasibility and clarity of research questions. Relevance to the projects area of intervention. Methodology, coherence and quality of writing. Expected outcomes and advocacy relevance. 11. Important Notes Only applications in English, complete with all required sections, will be considered. Group applications are strongly encouraged and will be prioritized. The research must align with ethical standards, including participant safety and data confidentiality. Selected studies will contribute to the broader project goal of youth empowerment in peacebuilding. A Sub-granting Agreement will be signed between WeWorld and the researchers upon selection. For technical questions regarding this Call for Proposals and the submission, you may reach out to [email protected]. For other concerns and feedback you can use WeWorlds Feedback and Complaint Mechanism (FCRM) using the following channels: WeWorld Helpline: +961 70 863 562 (8am-4pm) WeWorld F&C email: [email protected] (Always) Face-to-face meeting (Always, contacting relevant staff) Tender Link : https://www.daleel-madani.org/calls-for-proposal