University post to aid reconstruction of war-torn Islamic nations
Posted on 22 July 2008
The post arises as a result of a generous grant from the Al Tajir Trust to support the PRDU’s expansion of continuing professional development and commissioned research work under the leadership of Professor Sultan Barakat.
There is an urgent need to provide training in the Middle East for reconstruction professionals who cannot travel to the UK to read for the PRDU MA or similar courses
Professor Sultan Barakat
The grant builds on the long and successful relationship between the Al Tajir Trust and the University which is now approaching its tenth anniversary. This expansion will increase the capacity on PRDU’s MA in Post-war Recovery Studies course which in 2007 received 170 applications for 30 places.
Although the primary duty of the post will be to undertake lecturing and tutoring at postgraduate level, the postholder will work closely with Professor Barakat to develop long-term research programmes exploring the evolving nature of humanitarianism and post-war reconstruction in the World of Islam.
More specific research may focus on the inter-relations between Islam and humanitarian action and politics, and the rebuilding of war-torn Muslim societies (systems, policies, funding, governance, programme evaluation and their application).
The Al Tajir Lecturer will also develop and deliver teaching programmes for newly established PRDU satellite centres in Jordan and elsewhere.
The Director of PRDU, Professor Sultan Barakat, said: "We have had a long and fruitful relationship with the Al Tajir Trust, and its continued support is of enormous importance to the success of PRDU.
"There is an urgent need to provide training in the Middle East for reconstruction professionals who cannot travel to the UK to read for the PRDU MA or similar courses.
The work of the Al Tajir Lecturer in Amman will help to address this problem, as well as helping us to meet the demand for places on the MA course in York."
Director of the Al Tajir Trust, Richard Muir, said: "The Al Tajir Trust is delighted that it has been able to support the creation of the Al Tajir Lectureship in Post-War Recovery Studies at University of York. This reflects the Trust’s very positive experience in developing a long term relationship with the PRDU at York over a number of years. The Trust has been impressed with the quality of the Unit’s teaching and research, and the significant contribution it is making to the recovery of war torn countries."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- More information on the Post-War Reconstruction and Development Unit at www.york.ac.uk/depts/poli/prdu/welcome.htm
- More information on the University of York’s Department of Politics at www.york.ac.uk/depts/poli/about/index.htm