Overview
The Khalsa Education Fellowship empowers young Sikhs (ages 16–25) to create K–12 educational materials that will be open-sourced to Khalsa schools globally. Fellows receive training in curriculum design, mentorship from experienced educators, and the opportunity to shape how the next generation learns about Sikhi.
Stipend
$1,000 (paid upon completion)
Duration
12 weeks
Commitment
8–10 hours per week
Format
What You'll Create
Fellows develop curriculum units for a specific grade band:
Grade Band
Focus
K–2
Foundational stories, values, and traditions
3–5
Deeper narratives, historical events, and cultural practices
6–8
Critical thinking about Sikh history, ethics, and identity
9–12
Advanced topics: Sikh philosophy, global diaspora, contemporary issues
Grade Band
K-2
Focus
Foundational stories, values, and traditions
Grade Band
3-5
Focus
Deeper narratives, historical events, and cultural practices
Grade Band
6-8
Focus
Critical thinking about Sikh history, ethics, and identity
Grade Band
9-12
Focus
Advanced topics: Sikh philosophy, global diaspora, contemporary issues
Each unit includes:
- Lesson plans (3–5 lessons) with learning objectives, activities, and assessments
- Supporting materials such as handouts, discussion guides, and visual aids
- Teacher's guide with background information and facilitation tips
Your completed curriculum will be added to the Harvard Sikh Center’s open-source library, available to Khalsa schools and educators worldwide. You will be credited as the author.
What Makes This Fellowship Different
This is an in-house curriculum initiative. The Center identifies topics where quality educational materials are needed, and fellows work on projects that serve those needs. After selection, you’ll be matched with a mentor—an experienced educator or scholar—who guides your curriculum development.
You don’t need to arrive with a fully formed project. You need passion for Sikh education and commitment to creating something excellent.
Training & Support
Weekly cohort meetings connect you with fellow curriculum developers for feedback and collaboration.
- Principles of curriculum design
- Writing effective learning objectives
- Creating engaging activities and assessments
- Adapting content for different age groups
All fellows participate in training workshops covering:
- Ages 16–25 at time of application
- Any educational background—high school students, college students, and young professionals welcome
- No teaching experience required (we provide training)
- Applicants under 18 require parental consent if selected
Ideal Candidates:
- Passionate about Sikh history, values, and traditions
- Want to contribute to the education of the next generation
- Organized, creative, and committed to completing a quality project
- Open to learning about pedagogy and curriculum design
Application Materials
Your application includes:
Personal Statement (500 words max)
Your connection to Sikhi, what inspires you about Sikh education, any relevant experience, and what you hope to contribute
Project Proposal (300 words max)
A topic you're interested in developing, the grade band, your approach, and why this topic matters
Resume/Activity List
(optional)
Reference
Name and contact information for one person who can speak to your character, reliability, and interest in education or Sikhi
Note: Your project proposal indicates your interests and areas of strength. Final topic assignments are made in consultation with fellows after selection to ensure curriculum serves the Center’s educational priorities.
Selection Criteria
By accepting the fellowship, you agree to:
- Passion for Sikh education and sharing Sikh heritage
- Clarity and thoughtfulness of your proposed topic
- Commitment and ability to dedicate time to complete the project
- Enthusiasm to learn and grow as an educator
We welcome applicants at all experience levels. You do not need prior teaching experience to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. We provide training and mentorship. What matters is your passion for Sikh education and commitment to completing a quality project.
Yes. The fellowship is open to anyone ages 16–25. If you’re under 18, you’ll need parental consent if selected.
Your interests matter. Final topic assignments balance your strengths with the Center’s curriculum needs, determined in conversation after selection.
A reference from a community leader, gurdwara volunteer coordinator, or mentor who knows you well is acceptable.
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