Parhad Summer Research & Volunteer Program

Please note, this program is currently not being offered. We hope to provide information soon about its next iteration.


The Parhad Summer Research and Volunteer Program is a joint initiative of the Calgary Centre for Global Community and the Irma Parhad Programs at the University of Calgary.  This program supports emerging global citizens to explore issues that are disrupting community well-being in Canada and around the world.  Working together with civil-society organizations, program participants receive up to $5000.00 to:
  • carry out research on the issues different communities face and share these findings with Calgarians at the annual research symposium
  • share their knowledge and skills with their host organization, enhancing the organizations' capacity to accomplish their mandates.
  • work on related projects that their host organizations have designed to meet their communities' challenges head on, building their own capacity as effective global citizens. 
Since its beginning at the University of Calgary in 2001, more than sixty individuals have worked on projects in over 30 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North America.  Previous participants have gone on to work in diverse fields including international development, law, education, public policy and social services. 
The collective learning we engaged in during and after the Studentship was invaluable. Individually, the work I did provided a solid background to my ongoing work with marginalized people in Canada. The perspective I gained through the program helped to challenge my beliefs and values, and allowed me to explore new ways of thinking about issues.    
     - Ali Paul, Parhad Program participant