FY2023, Q3 Progress Report: Lincoln Scholarship Program

The program began on August 28, 2019, and is set to conclude on August 27, 2026, with a total award amount of $28,000,000. The program's primary objective is to provide educational opportunities to Burmese students, with a focus on conflict resolution and leadership skills. The program has four cohorts, with Cohort 2 and Cohort 3 being the primary focus of the FY2023, Q3 Progress Report. Cohort 2 and Cohort 3 scholars have been participating in various activities, including the Foundations of Conflict Resolution Course, Re-Entry Workshop for Graduating Lincoln Scholars, and Summer Conflict Resolution and Leadership Workshop. Cohort 4 scholars have been undergoing pre-academic training, including administrative preparations, stipend, study space, and self-risk assessments. They have also participated in virtual mental health workshops and group townhall sessions. IIE Burma and IIE Washington D.C. have been preparing for C4 departures to the United States, including J1 medicals, immunizations, and COVID-19 vaccinations. The program has also been conducting outreach and recruitment for Cohort 5, with Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the recruitment process being completed. The shortlisting process was conducted from June 28 to June 30, and preparations for final C5 interviews were made from July 10 to July 21. Monitoring and evaluation activities have been ongoing, with a focus on tracking the progress of Cohort 2 and Cohort 3 scholars. The program has also been working with sub-recipients, including George Mason University Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution and CoreSkills, LLC, to support the education and development of Burmese students. The FY2023, Q3 Progress Report highlights the program's achievements and challenges, with a focus on the next reporting period from July to September, FY2023. The program's priorities for the next reporting period include final IIE Burma briefings for Cohort 4, preparation for scholar arrivals, in-person on-arrival orientation in Washington D.C., and the start of academic programs for Cohort 4.