Post of Web Master

SAARC Cultural Center in Colombo is seeking a highly-skilled, experienced webmaster to develop, update, and operate the official website of the Center with latest lay outs and plug-ins to its current website. The selected person will be responsible for managing the Center’s web/online presence, ensuring that the site is user-friendly, informative and performs as a Resource Center for the entire region and explore new information to the regions beyond. He/ She should also ensure that the website is up to date at all times. The selected candidate will also have to expand its presence through the design and implementation of new web-based applications that will offer a positive impact on the user experience, and highly knowledgeable in server management and online security, content management, and have solid coding skills.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field.
  • Preference will be given to those who have working/ professional experience in the particular field.
  • Must have knowledge of server systems, databases, web authoring tools, and Cold Fusion (or comparable middleware).
  • Strong working knowledge of all relevant coding languages (PHP, Javascript, HTML).
  • Capable of utilizing web content management systems, e.g. WordPress, Jumla, Drupal etc.,).
  • Sound Communication skills in English.

Job Description

  • Maintains internal and external website security.
  • Ensures internal and external website availability.
  • Evaluates internal and external website development.
  • Manages resources to implement approved internal and external web sources/ resources.
  • Communicates internal and external website developments to appropriate stakeholders.
  • Assists with implementation of online content management systems (CMS) where appropriate.

Other Service Conditions:

Temporary Position for a period of 10 months.
The medium of work will be in English.
Age limit – Not more than 45 years of age on the closing date of applications.
Applicants who possess the above requisite qualifications should forward their applications together with copies of educational/ professional qualifications, details of
work experience and names and addresses of 2 non-related referees.
All applications should be sent by post to reach the address given below on or before 15 July 2020. The post applied for should be stated clearly on the top left hand corner of the
envelope.

Only shortlisted applicants will be called for interviews.

Director
SAARC Cultural Centre
No. 224, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7

Recruitment of professionals for the posts of Epidemiologist and Technical Officer (HIV/AIDS) at STAC against the vacant posts


SAARC Tuberculosis & HIV/AIDS Centre (STAC)

Kathmandu, Nepal

Detail information on Qualification, Experiences, Job description,

Post                      :     Epidemiologist – (One)
Period                   :     Three years
Minimum
Qualifications   :

  • Medical Graduation, M.B.B.S.
  • Post Graduation/Masters Degree in Epidemiology or in Public Health.

Experience        :     

  • At least 5 years experience in infectious diseases Surveillance or epidemiological research. Preference will be given to the candidates having more experience.
  • At least 2 year or more experience in tuberculosis and/or HIV/AIDS surveillance or epidemiological research
  • Experience in research design, planning and implementation.
  • Experience in database design, data management and data analysis.
  • Experience with database and statistical analysis software.
  • Experience in statistical modeling considered an asset.
  • Experience in conducting trainings considered as an asset.

Job Description

  • To design and manage a database for housing epidemiological data on tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
  • To collect epidemiological data on Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS in the Member States.
  • To monitor, maintain and evaluate the statistical data on Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS
  • To update all relevant statistical data on Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
  • To prepare research and surveillance protocols, reports and papers for publication.
  • To organise and deliver training to various levels of professional staff on Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS epidemiology.
  • To provide technical support to other professionals at the SAARC Regional Tuberculosis Centre and collaborating institutions.

 

Post                      :   Technical Officer (HIV/AIDS) – One Post
Period                  :   Three years
Minimum
Qualifications   :    

  • Medical Graduation; M.B.B.S.
  • Post Graduation in Medicine/Community Medicine/Public Health.

Experience         :    

  • At least 5 years experience in infectious diseases
    Surveillance / Monitoring/ Epidemiological research.
    And
  • And at least 3 years experience of experience at the Managerial level or the Programme implementation level in National HIV/AIDS Control  Programme
  • Experience in research design, planning and implementation.
  • Experience in database design, data management and data analysis.
  • Experience with database and statistical analysis.
  • Experience in Biostatistics and related software.
  • Experience in Biostatistics/ Statistical modeling considered as an asset.
  • Experience in Monitoring & Evaluation of National Programmes
  • Experience to facilitate training considered as an asset.

Job Description

  • To design and manage a database for housing epidemiological data on HIV/AIDS.
  • To collect, collate analyze and disseminate all relevant information regarding latest development and findings in the field of HIV/AIDS, TB HIV/Co-infection in the Region and elsewhere.
  • To monitor, maintain and evaluate the programmes, statistical data on HIV/AIDS.
  • To Assist Director for harmonization of polices and strategy on HIV/AIDS and TB/HIV co-infection.
  • To update all relevant statistical data on HIV/AIDS.
  • To prepare research and surveillance protocols, reports and papers for publication.
  • To facilitate training programmes to various levels of professional staff on HIV/AIDS epidemiology.
  • To provide technical support to other professionals at the SAARC Regional Tuberculosis & HIV/AIDS Centre and collaborating institutions.
  • Any other related work assigned by the Director.

 

Appointment Procedure and Terms & Conditionspdf-icon

 

Short-term Expert(s)/Parties required for Studies

The SAARC Energy Centre requires services from experienced and qualified expert(s)/parties to conduct the following studies on its behalf. The detailed Request for Proposal and information relevant to each advertised study can be downloaded from its respective web link given against each:

a.  Energy Efficiency Improvements in Power Generation and Distribution Sectors  of  SAARC Countries”(https://www.saarcenergy.org/short-term-expert-required-5/)

b.  “Technical Issues and Financial Viability of Net-Metering Mechanisms from the Perspective of Distribution Utilities”(https://www.saarcenergy.org/short-term-expert-required-3/)

c.  “Assessment of Wind and Solar Power Forecasting Techniques in SAARC Countries(https://www.saarcenergy.org/short-term-expert-required-4/)

d.  Challenges in Financing of Utility-Scale Clean Energy Projects in SAARC Countries(https://www.saarcenergy.org/short-term-expert-required-6/)

 

 

SAARC Archaeology and Heritage Management Training Workshop Footsteps of the Past, Custodians of the Present, Heritage of the Future Afghanistan

1.    BACKGROUND
The SAARC Cultural Centre held two capacity building workshops on heritage management – “Management Systems of World Heritage Sites in South Asia” in Pakistan in 2013 and “Preparation of Proposals of New Sites for Inclusion in the World Heritage List” in Lumbini, Nepal in 2014.  Subsequently at the Plenary and Academic Sessions of the Research Seminar on “Buddhist Cultural Trails: Journey Through Time and Space, of Merchants, Monks and Pilgrims” held in 2017, the need for training programmes in Archaeology and Heritage Management within the Region was highlighted.

Tangible Cultural Heritage (TCH) of South Asia is not limited to World Heritage Sites and the landscape is dotted with archaeological sites indicating the long and eventful history of the Region.  In many of these TCH sites there are associated Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) which are neglected due to lack of resources.  There are sites in the Region which are yet to be identified, conserved, restored and managed for posterity.  However, the biggest challenge the SAARC Region is facing now is the lack of human resources.  This workshop hopes to lay the foundation in building the human resources of the region to face the challenges of Heritage Management for present and future.

 

2.    OBJECTIVES OF THE WORKSHOP

2.1    To discuss the current requirements of Member States in Archaeology and Heritage Management and facilitate Programmes within the Region.   (SAARC Agenda for Culture 9.4 – SAARC Exchange Programme on Culture – Exchange of expertise, information and technology on archaeological excavation, preservation of artefacts, protection of heritage sites etc.
•    To identify the skills and technology required within the Region.
•    To share the knowledge resources of the Member States.
•    To share the available technical knowledge of the Region.

2.1    Preservation and Conservation of South Asian Cultural Property (SAARC Cultural Centre Mandate point 2 – Identification and documentation of the regional tangible and intangible cultural heritage, existing across the region, particularly traditional and diminishing cultures, arts and related traditions)
•    To contribute towards the preservation, conservation and protection of South Asia’s Cultural Heritage within the frame work of the SAARC Agenda for Culture.
•    To identify Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in and around Tangible Cultural Heritage (TCH) sites and locations.

2.2    To develop the Human Resources of the Region in Archaeology and Heritage Management (SAARC Agenda for Culture 9.1 – SAARC Exchange Programme on Culture – Human resource development in the field of archaeological and cultural heritage)
•    To train in Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMP).
•    To train in customizing/individualizing the CHMP to each heritage site.

2.3    To facilitate Sustainable Tourism Promotion at the Cultural Heritage Sites.  (SAARC Cultural Centre Mandate point 7 – Contributing inputs to the promotion of cultural and religious tourism in the region)
•    To discuss the state of policies of sustainable tourism in the Member States.
•    To build a South Asian framework for sustainable tourism of heritage sites.

2.4    To identify Research and Policy Requirements for the facilitation of Sustainable Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMP) of SAARC.  (SAARC Agenda for Culture 5.10 – Economic development through connectivity and culture: Promotion of SAARC cultural and religious tourism – Harmonization of local policies on the promotion of culture and arts and financing systems, and develop a SAARC common policy on selected areas of culture and arts
•    To identify the relevant Government Ministries and Departments in the Member States for Sustainable Tourism.

 

3.    SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY OF THE WORKSHOP
The scope of the Workshop is based on the 9th clause of the SAARC Agenda for Culture which highlights SAARC Exchange Programme on Culture.  The scope of the Workshop are as follows:
•    Human resource development in the field of archaeological and cultural heritage,
•    Short-term training programmes of areas of cultural interest,
•    Exchange of expertise, information and technology on archaeological excavation, preservation of artefacts, protection of heritage sites etc.

Methodology
The Workshop will be structured on building/sharing knowledge through presentations, discussions, case studies, etc.  Participants will be required to prepare a Site Report/Country Report of a tangible heritage site(s) from each Member State prior to the Workshop.  The Site Reports/Country Reports will be used as case studies during discussions.  The Resource Persons participating from each Member State will lead discussions in the fields of their expertise.

 

4.    WORKSHOP TRAINING MODULES
This is a tentative module and will change according to the Resources Persons nominated by each Member State.
4.1    Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMP).
4.2    Site interpretation and public awareness.
4.3    Disaster preparedness for cultural heritage.
4.4    Documentation of archaeological sites.
4.5    Photo-documentation of paintings and murals.
4.6    Collection management in archaeological sites and museums.
4.7    Cultural Impact Assessments in Development Projects.

 

5.    RESOURCE PERSONS FOR THE WORKSHOP
Each Member State is kindly requested to nominate a minimum of 1 Resource Person from mid to senior level professionals.  The field of expertise can be one from the list below but not limited to the fields identified below.
5.1    Archaeological Excavations
5.2    Artefact conservators (metal, terracotta, wooden, glass, etc.)
5.3    Disaster Preparedness and Management of Cultural Heritage
5.4    Collection Management
5.5    Tourism promotion of archaeological sites/tangible cultural heritage
5.6    Architectural conservation
5.7    Archaeological Surveying
5.8    Archaeological Impact Assessments
5.9    Experts on GIS and 3D modelling.

 

6.    TARGET PARTICIPANTS FOR THE WORKSHOP
The Nominees for the Workshop may be selected from amongst diverse disciplines among Academics and Policy Makers.  Priority should be for early to mid-career level professionals involved in heritage management, policy makers and persons associated with the World Heritage Sites in the Region.  Resource Persons should be selected from mid to senior level professionals.

Academics and Scholars should include but not limited to:
•    Archaeologists,
•    Art Historians,
•    Conservators,
•    Planners,
•    Architects,
•    Curators,
•    Museologists,
•    Heritage Site Managers,
•    Persons working with national and local authorities with experience in the fields of archaeological Conservation and Preservation,
•    Tangible and Intangible Heritage Experts,
•    Managers, planners and staff of heritage sites.

 

7.    DETAILS FOR PARTICIPATION AT THE WORKSHOP

7.1    Official Nominees from the Member States
The SAARC Cultural Centre invites all Member States to send a maximum of Five Official Nominations.  One of the Nominees should be a Resource Person with an expertise mentioned in No. 5 of this document (mid to senior level professionals).  The others should be early to mid-career professionals working at or in charge of a heritage site of the Member State.
•    The SAARC Cultural Centre would provide the local hospitality (Hotel accommodations on full board basis) and the local transport to all Official Nominees of the SAARC Member States (Participants / Resource Persons).

•    The Airfare of the Official Nominees of the SAARC Member States is to be borne by the respective Member State.

The Host Country can nominate a maximum of 15 Official Nominees and they will be provided with the Workshop material and the Cultural Tour and accommodation only for participants who are out of town subject to availability of budget.

7.2    Other Participants
Category A – The SAARC Cultural Centre would also accept the participation of other Participants/Resource Persons from the Member States (other than the Official Nominees of the respective SAARC Member States).  Air Travel to be borne by the participant and SCC will provide accommodation, Workshop material and the cultural tour.
•    Other Participants (Category A) Selection of Other Participants in this category will be at the discretion of the SAARC Cultural Centre depending on the availability of space.

Category B – Participants from the Host Country where the Workshop is held can participate.
•    Other Participants (Category B) from the Host country will not be provided with accommodation.
•    Selection of the Other Participants will depend on the availability of space.

7.3    Nomination Process

7.3.1    The Official Nominees will be selected by each Member State comprising of leading archaeologists, architects, planners, conservators, site managers and those working with local authorities with experience in the field of management of cultural heritage sites and persons in charge of archaeological sites (Heritage Managers) from the Member State.  Official Nominations should be submitted to the SAARC Secretariat, with the Registration Form (Annexure 1) and the Format for the Submission of Site Reports/Country Papers (Annexure 2) attached and the details requested at 7.5 of this document.

7.3.2    All Other Participants (Category A and Category B) from each Member State should forward their information (including the Annexure 1 and Annexure 2) through the respective Foreign Ministries to the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu.

7.3.3    All Applications must be sent through the respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Ministry of External Affairs to the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu.  An Advance copy can be emailed to the SAARC Cultural Centre.

 

7.4    All Participants should include:
I.    Full Name and Affiliation of the Person and other details requested in the Registration Form attached herewith.  (Registration Form – Annexure 1)
II.    Detailed CV of the participant.
III.    Scanned Copy of Passport
IV.    The Site Report of a Tangible Heritage Site the participants (Official Nominees and Other Participants) are familiar with.  The Resource Persons may submit a general report on the Archaeology and Heritage Management of the Country if so desired.  The Site Report and Country Report should be submitted in the Submission Form attached herewith.  (Format for the Submission of Site Reports/Country Reports – Annexure 2)
V.    The Officially nominated Resource Persons are requested to prepare Country Reports (ie. Situation of the respective Member States) from the perspective of his or her expertise.  The Country Report should be submitted in the Submission Form attached herewith.  (Format for the Submission of Site Reports/Country Reports – Annexure 2)

 

7.5    Format for Submission of Site Reports/Country Reports
The Format for the Submission of Site Reports/Country Reports are attached as a separate document (Annexure 2).

 

8.    SITE REPORTS/COUNTRY REPORTS
All participants must prepare a Site Report of an Archaeological or Cultural Heritage site which you are familiar with.  These Reports will be used as case studies during the Workshop.  The Resource Persons may submit a Country Report.  Please use Annexure 2 to submit the Site Reports.  The Report must contain the following information.
8.1    Basic Information (Location – Longitude and Latitude, Country, State/Province, District, Town, Village, etc., a map of the area, etc.)
8.2    Type of Site (Religious, Administrative, Agricultural, Residential, etc.)
8.3    Authority/Ownership of the Site (Local Government, State Government, Religious Order, etc.)
8.4    Description of the Site (History, chronology, architectural details, landscape, etc.)
8.5    Current status (the number of visitors, infrastructure available for visitors, information available for visitors, etc.)
8.6    Existing publications regarding the site.
8.7    Websites which refers to this site.
8.8    Any other relevant details.

 

9.    Other Information
9.1         The Language of the Workshop will be English.
9.2         The Workshop material (delegate kit, tea, working lunch) as well as invitations to special events would be extended to all participants.

 

10.    Time Schedule for the Workshop & Site Report Submissions
Call for Participation: 20th February 2020
Deadline for accepting Nominees & Participants: To be announced
Submission of Site Reports/Country Reports: To be announced
Workshop: To be announced
Cultural Tour: To be announced

SAARC DEVELOPNMENT FUND (SDF) INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR APPOINTING A NEW CEO

The SAARC Development Fund (SDF), established in 2005 is the umbrella financial institution of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The SDF Secretariat based in Thimphu, Bhutan undertakes and implements projects and programmes under three windows: Social, Economic and Infrastructure in fulfillment of the greater developmental goals of the SAARC region. By working with the SDF in the capacity of CEO, a person will have the opportunity of leading one of the important Specialized Bodies of SAARC and implementing regional and sub-regional projects with a view to promoting welfare of the peoples in the region.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SDF CEO ARE:

  • Will be the chief of the operating staff of the SDF Secretariat and will be responsible for the day-to-day business of SDF under the direction of the Board of Directors (BoD);
  • Will be responsible for the management of the organization in accordance with the Rules and Regulations;
  • Steer SDF’s work, including decisions on investments, loans, guarantees and technical assistance;
  • Will be the ex-officio member of the BoD;
  • In the discharge of his/her official responsibilities, the CEO will be accountable to SDF Board;
  • Will be responsible for timely implementation and monitoring of the approved projects in close coordination with the SDF Member States and SAARC Secretariat;
  • Will be responsible for preparing and submitting Annual Report/Progress Report to the BoD in time;
  • Will be the legal representative of SDF.

 

THE CANDIDATES MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

Experience:

Essential:
A minimum of fifteen (15) years of proven track record in a financial institution of international/regional/national standing, with at least five (5) years in a senior financial management position;
Commendable grasp over the developmental challenges being faced by the SAARC Region.

Desirable:
Experience of dealing/working with Government agencies with respect to development and financing of projects in Social, Economic and Infrastructure Sector.

Education:

Essential:
Post Graduate Degree in Finance/Business Management/Economics.

Desirable:
An advanced degree in Strategic Business Management would be an advantage.

Age Limit:
Should not be more than 55 years of age on 30 September 2020.

Citizenship:
A bona fide citizen of any Member State of SAARC (i.e. Afghanistan /Bangladesh /Bhutan /India /Nepal /Maldives /Pakistan /Sri Lanka).

Remuneration and allowances:
The CEO would be paid a remuneration of US$ 6,000 [US Dollars Six Thousand (tax-free)] with accommodation, transport and other admissible allowances and benefits as per the relevant rules of SDF.

Privileges and Immunities:
The CEO may enjoy, applicable privileges and immunities, as per the Headquarters Agreement between the Royal Government of Bhutan and SDF.

Tenure:
The term of office of the CEO will be five years, with a possibility of extension by another term of five years, subject to conditions including age limit.

If you meet the above criteria and are confident to take up the challenge of leading SDF, please submit your application to:

Director (ARD & SDF), SAARC Secretariat, GPO Box No.: 4222, Kathmandu, Nepal

Email: dirban@saarc-sec.org or doard@saarc-sec.org

Application Form may be downloaded from: www.sdfsec.org

Application deadline: The applications must reach the SAARC Secretariat by Monday, 23 March 2020.

The SDF Governing Board will interview the short-listed candidates for final selection. The new CEO will assume charge of the office on 12 August 2020.

Internship Programme at the SAARC Cultural Centre

The SAARC Cultural Centre invites interested candidates to apply for the position of Intern – Festival Promotion and Public Relations (2) to work for its 10th edition of the SAARC Film Festival programme in May 2020. As an intern, you will be required to assist in pre-event publicity, and promotional activities during the event.

The SAARC Film Festival is a reputed and an acclaimed International Film Festival of South Asia.  The festival is known for screening and recognising some of the best films from the SAARC Member States of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Several Film experts, technicians had actively participated in the previous editions of the festival. Overtime the SAARC Film Festival showcases and inspires cultural heritage and traditions of South Asia through the medium of cinema.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Design and Conceptualization of Marketing Strategy.
  • Coordination with media (Electronic and print media).
  • Manage Social Media publicity including Facebook (FB) event page etc.
  • Evaluating public response.
  • Editing of Videos and Photos.
  • Presenting Reports.

Tenure           : One Month
Work Station: Colombo, Sri Lanka

Desired

  • Diploma/Degree/Any equivalent qualification(s) in the related field
  • Excellent Communication Skills

Preferred

  • Previous experience in event management/working with international organisations.
  • Knowledge in working with Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing
  • Knowledge in Photo and Poster editing
  • Multilingual
  • Should be able to work under pressure.
  • Passionate to be part of a renowned film festival.

Benefits

  • Certificate of Internship
  • Exposure from an International Event whilst widening film knowledge specific to South Asian Films
  • Access to 10th SAARC Film Festival Events

Apply no later than 05th March 2020 : Click here to download the Applicationpdf-icon
Forward the duly filled Application Form, Resume, Portfolio to
1.    Culture-Specialist (Programmes) : programme@saarcculture.org
2.    Programme-Assistant: programme-assistant@saarcculture.org

Director, SAARC Cultural Centre pays a courtesy call on Dr. Rewant Vikram Singh, Director, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Colombo

Director, SAARC Cultural Centre paid a courtesy call on the Director, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Dr. Rewant Vikram Singh on 4th September 2019. The purpose of the visit was to brief Dr. Singh about the work and the activities of the SAARC Cultural Centre. The meeting also provided an opportunity to share the detailed tentative work plan of the SAARC Cultural Centre for the calendar year 2020. Dr. Vikram Singh expressed his willingness to collaborate in the future activities of the SAARC Cultural Centre. Mrs. Renuka Ekanayake, thanked the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre and the Government of India for the unstinted support extended to the SAARC Cultural Centre for the past nine years.

IMG-2557

SAARC Literary Award 2019

The SAARC Cultural Centre Governing Board Members of the 9th Governing Board Meeting and the Members of the 54th Programming Committee approved the presentation of the SAARC Literary Award to a writer nominated by the honoured Member States as per SAARC practice in alphabetical order. This award was devised to bring attention to the writers of South Asia and create an awareness of the rich creations of the Region. The SAARC Literary Award 2018 was awarded to Mr. Najibullah Manalai nominated by the honoured Member State of Afghanistan.

The second SAARC Literary Awardee was nominated by the honoured Member State of Bangladesh and awarded in conjunction with the SAARC Cultural Capital Closing Ceremony in Bhutan. Dr. Anisuzzaman nominated by the honoured Member State of Bangladesh is a writer and academic in Bengali literature for more than 60 years. He has won many awards and is recognized as a writer on national identity, education, religions, historical and social reconstruction. His books such as Muslim Manash O Bangla Sahitya, Swaruper Sandhane, Purono Bangla Gadya, Bangali Nari: Sahitye O Samaje, Kal Nirabadhi, and Ihajagatikata O Anyanya are considered seminal works by academics working on Bangla literature and language.

Dr. Anisuzzaman was awarded the SAARC Literary Award in conjunction with the SAARC Cultural Capital Closing Ceremony held in Bhutan on 29th June 2019. The award was presented by Hon. Mr. Dasho Sherub Gyeltshen, Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs of Bhutan, The Secretary General of SAARC H.E. Mr. Amjad Hussain B. Sial, Mr. Karma Weezir, Director General of the Department of Culture, Bhutan and Ms. Renuka Ekanayake, Director of the SAARC Cultural Centre, were also present at this occasion.

Closing Ceremony of the SAARC Cultural Capital 2018-19

Date    : 29th June 2019
Venue : Thimphu, Bhutan

In pursuance of the SAARC Agenda for Culture the Concept of Cultural Capital was launched with the view to recognise and highlight the diversity of each SAARC Member State whilst celebrating the shared culture and heritage of the Region. Each SAARC Member State is invited to designate a city of their choice to be declared as the Cultural Capital of the SAARC Region for a period of one year. During this one-year period, the designated cultural capital would host a series of cultural and social events, made up of Participatory and Non-Participatory programmes. The SAARC Cultural Capital is declared to provide a platform for the SAARC Member States to promote Regional unity and enhance cultural activities.

The First SAARC Cultural Capital was the ancient city of Bamiyan located in the central part of Afghanistan. Bamiyan was officially inaugurated as the SAARC Cultural Capital on the 5th June 2015, and it became the host to many cultural programmes including the SAARC Artist Camp in 2015. The Closing Ceremony of the SAARC Cultural Capital of Bamiyan was held on 21st of September 2016. Thimphu, the Capital of Bhutan which is distinct for its unique culture and traditional values was designated as the SAARC Cultural Capital for the period from 2018-19. The Inauguration Ceremony held on 31st of May 2018 organised by the SAARC Cultural Centre in collaboration with the Department of Culture of Bhutan at the Clock Tower venue in Thimphu amidst a larger audience. The city became host to many cultural events which were organised to celebrate the SAARC Cultural Capital of 2018-19.

CLOSING CEREMONY

The Closing Ceremony of the SAARC Cultural Capital 2018-19 was held at the Conference Hall of the Department of Culture of Bhutan on the 29th June 2019 marking the end of the SAARC Cultural Capital Thimphu. Honourable Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs of Bhutan, Hon. Mr. Dasho Sherub Gyeltshen graced this occasion with his presence as the Chief Guest while the Secretary General of SAARC H.E. Mr. Amjad Hussain B. Sial was the Guest of Honour. H.E the Ambassador for Bangladesh in Bhutan, Mr. Sonam Topgay Secretary, Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, Bhutan, Mr. Karma Weezir, Director General, Department of Culture, Bhutan, Ms. Renuka Ekanayake, Director, SAARC Cultural Centre and Officials from the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, Bhutan were among the dignitaries present at the Closing Ceremony of the SAARC Cultural Capital of Thimphu.

The Event began with the “Marchang Ceremony” followed by the Special Theme Song. Mr. Karma Weezir, Director General of the Department of Culture, Bhutan delivered the Welcome Address. Hon. Mr. Dasho Sherub Gyeltshe, Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs of Bhutan praised the collective initiative taken by the organisers and appreciated the intention to promote culture, trust and understanding to bridge Regional connectivity.

Director of the SAARC Cultural Centre, Ms. Renuka Ekanayake in her speech highlighted the role played by the SAARC Cultural Centre and its continuous efforts towards the promotion of Regional unity and the preservation and protection of South Asia’s Cultural Heritage. She also praised Thimphu for the successful completion of the SAARC Cultural Capital 2018-19, appreciating the support rendered by the Royal Government of Bhutan. The Secretary General of SAARC, H.E. Mr. Amjad Hussain B. Sial conveyed his compliments to the Royal Government of Bhutan for their accomplishments during the SAARC Cultural Capital 2018-19 and commended the sustained efforts of the organisers for successfully hosting several programmes to showcase Bhutan’s unique cultural heritage for the visitors. H.E. the Secretary General also wished the SAARC Member State of India, the host of SAARC Cultural Capital for 2019 – 2020 all success. Ms. Renuka Ekanayake, Director of the SAARC Cultural Centre received the Official Scroll of the SAARC Cultural Capital on behalf of the Member State of India from H.E the Secretary General. The Closing Ceremony also featured a Mask Dance which is an integral part of Bhutan’s rich cultural and religious traditions. The programme concluded successfully with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mrs. Kishani Jayasinghe-Wijayasekara, Deputy Director-Programmes of the SAARC Cultural Centre.

SAARC Research Grant Islamic Cultural Trails: Journey through Time and Space – Minarets and Mosques, Tombs, Trade, Tradition and Technology

1.    BACKGROUND

The “South Asian Cultural Trails” was approved by the 18th SAARC Summit in Kathmandu in November 2014.   The Islamic Cultural Trails is the third Research Grant on South Asian Cultural Trails and was approved by the 10th Governing Board Meeting of the SAARC Cultural Centre and the 56th Session of the Programming Committee of SAARC.  The Research Grants will provide an opportunity for the Member States to explore new research areas and sites along the Islamic Cultural Trails.  This will also act as a precursor to the Cultural Trails proposed for the future and lay the ground work in research to look at Cultural Trails as connected routes where ideas, information and knowledge travelled in all directions.  8 Research Grants will be disbursed, one for each Member State.

2.    OBJECTIVES OF THE RESEARCH GRANT

2.1    To encourage new research through the SAARC Research Grants on the Cultural Trails of the SAARC Region.
2.2    To encourage new research on identification of new sites, locations, cultural trails, tangible and intangible heritage associated with Islamic Cultural Trails.
2.3    To facilitate new research and new approaches to study the Islamic Cultural Trails as an integrated entity.
2.4    To study and analyse all different perspectives and areas which influenced the establishment, development and continuation of the Cultural Trails in the Region.
2.5    To present innovative measures for the conservation and preservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the SAARC Region.

3.    RESEARCH GRANT OVERVIEW

One research proposal will be selected from each Member State to be awarded the short-term Research Grant of US$ 1,000/=.  The selection of Research Proposals will be carried out by a team of experts selected by the SAARC Cultural Centre.

The SAARC Cultural Centre invites Academics and Researchers from Member States to submit detailed Research Proposals (along with the detailed budget breakdown for US$ 1,000/=) for new and innovative short-term research projects on the Islamic Cultural Trails.  The first instalment of the grant (US$ 500/=) will be made at the commencement of the Research Project.  The final payment is subject to the review of the final presentation made to a team of experts via video conferencing and submission of the Final Research Report.  Any suggestions / recommendations made by the SCC team of experts at this stage should be included in the research process by the respective researchers.

At the completion of the research project, each researcher will be required to submit a Research Report of academic quality to be published in the “South Asian Cultural Trails” publication series of the SAARC Cultural Centre in 2020.  Academics and Researchers are encouraged to present the Research Project at a local or international forum within one year and to disseminate the knowledge gathered with the relevant stakeholders (academic discussion, tourism industry, sustainable development, etc.).  Relevant documents with regard to the above dissemination of information should be sent to the SCC.

4.    RESEARCH PROJECT THEMES

The following themes have been identified for the Research Seminar and Research Grant on Islamic Cultural Trails.  However, research proposals based on different themes will also be accepted depending on their content and relevance to the Islamic Cultural Trails.

4.1    Islamic Cultural Trails – (Refer to Annexure 1 for Details).
4.2    Identification of New Sites and Locations along the Islamic Cultural Trails.
4.3    Comparative Studies of Islamic sites (monuments, mosques, minarets, tombs, etc.,) in the Region.
4.4    Comparative Research and interpretation of Landscape values of Islamic gardens.
4.5    Travels of Islamic Pilgrims.
4.6    Cultural Symbolism of Islam.
4.7    Art and Architecture of ICT.
4.8    Archaeology of ICT.
4.9    Intangible Heritage of ICT (Music, dance, folk art, folk stories, traditional healing, handicrafts, etc.).
4.10   Trade and Commerce of ICT.
4.11    Manuscripts, texts and inscriptions, languages and scripts of Islam.
4.12    Technology of ICT (Irrigation, engineering, agriculture, etc.)
4.13    Cultural Diffusion of Islam.
4.14    Heritage Management of ICT sites.
4.15    Tourism promotion of ICT.

5.    ELIGIBILITY

5.1    Academics, Scholars and Researchers of the SAARC Member States.
5.2    Academics, Scholars and Researchers who have received Research Grants from the SAARC Cultural Centre previously will not be eligible.

6.    APPLICATION PROCESS

6.1    Format for the Application is attached herewith as Annexure 2
6.2    Each Member State can forward any number of Research Proposals for consideration.
6.3    Research Proposals should be for an innovative and new research based on the themes mentioned above (No. 4 of this document).
6.4    New themes related to Islamic Cultural Trails.
6.5    All sections of the application should be completed (Part A, B and C).
6.6    Incomplete applications will not be considered.
6.7    Applications must be forwarded to the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu, Nepal through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Ministry of External Affairs of the Member State.
6.8    An advance copy can be emailed to the SAARC Cultural Centre – scc@saarcculture.org with copy to dd-research@saarcculture.org
6.9    All Research Proposals must reach the SAARC Cultural Centre by 31st October 2019.
6.10    The Research Grant will be distributed in 2 instalments – The first instalment (US$ 500/=) at the commencement of the project and final instalment (US$ 500/=) after the submission of the final report with reviewers’ comments.
6.11    Each recipient of the SAARC Research Grant must submit a research report of academic quality.
6.12    The final payment is subject to the review of the final presentation made to a team of reviewers via video conferencing.   Any suggestions/recommendations made by the SCC team of reviewers at this stage should be included in the research process by the respective researchers.

7.    TIME SCHEDULE

7.1    Deadline for accepting research proposals – 31st October 2019
7.2    Selection of research proposals – 30th November 2019
7.3    Commencement of the research -10th December 2019
7.4    Submission of final report – 31st March 2020
7.5     Presentation of the research to the team of reviewers – May 2020
7.6    Resubmitting the research report with reviewers’ comments – June 2020