A residential training program in India, for global students, with Gandhian scholars. Starts in June. Applications open
From June 15 to July 31, 2025, Mahatma Gandhi Mission University will be offering an international course on Nonviolence and Peace. The aim is to cover the most important concepts of the subject, in general terms – going deeply into conflict transformation, Gandhian nonviolence, the study of sustainability and Satyagraha. The project is led by two of the leading scholars of the Gandhian movement: Prof. M. P. Mathai and Dr. John Chelladurai.
Registration was opened in January (instructions below), and candidates who meet certain requirements are accepted: over 18 years of age, proficiency in English, and proven involvement in study and work in field. The course is free, with a contribution of US$500 required to cover the costs of accommodation, food, and travel to projects. During 30 days, the course is immersive and residential on the university campus, and for the other 15 days, trips are made to projects linked to the themes.
- Training for global students, in residential regime:
- Period: June 15 to July 31, 2025
- Equivalent credits: 12 credits
- Teaching methodology: A) Weekly, 20 hours of lectures, and 20 hours of laboratory, fieldwork or practice. B) One month of program on the university campus, and 15 days of visits to projects of practice of values.
- Tutoring: two hours weekly.
- Mentor/supervisor: candidates receive a mentor for the practice and writing of the projects.
Modules of the course
- Course 1: Gandhian Principles of Nonviolence and Peace
- Course 2: Applying Nonviolent Action – Global Experience
- Course 3: Sustainability – Principles, Context and Concerns
- Course 4: Sustainability – Practices
- Course 5: Dealing with Conflict – Art of Creatively Managing Conflict
- Course 6: Satyagraha – Precepts and Practices
About the program
Civilization is fundamentally a journey toward nonviolence—a belief deeply rooted in the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, who regarded nonviolence as the essence of life. As General MacArthur observed, violence is not only fundamentally wrong but also harbours the seeds of self-destruction. Gandhi’s legacy exemplifies the power of nonviolence both as a personal ethos and a framework for conducting our lives—public and private—in a manner that is just, peaceful and sustainable.
In the 21st century, this idea holds even greater significance. Modernity has transformed every individual into a global citizen. As Alfred North Whitehead noted, the worlds “arise and coalesce” to shape who we are today. Technology and the interconnected global economy have amplified our strengths and their repercussions equally. Our lives now possess a vishwaroop (global stature), emphasizing that individual’s existence is intricately linked to global society. Everyone is a stakeholder in the life of everyone else.
For the same reason, every action—personal or public—resonates across the globe. The prioritization of individualism over social responsibility lies at the heart of many global challenges. A mutually exclusive attitude by itself is an ethical violation and is at the root of many ills, whether personal misconduct or environmental degradation. In our diverse society, narrow individualistic perspectives pose a threat to the future of life on Earth.
To inspire the present generation with the principles of sustainable living in light of Gandhian nonviolence, MGM University in India offers a forty five-day residential training program focused on nonviolence and peace. Join us in this essential exploration of a path that enriches individual lives and the global living at the same time.
Application and process
The application and selection process is carried out in two steps, as specified below. Also, if you want the contact our Shanti Brazil Institute initially to express your intention to apply, feel free – we are partner of this initiative. The institute’s president, Leandro Uchoas, is one of the course mentors. The two steps are described as follows:
Step 1. Fill out the form in the link above
1.a) The form will ask you to identify an institution or NGO that is your reference in Nonviolence and Peace. This institution may be consulted in the selection process.
1.b) The form will also ask you to provide a PDF file explaining the reasons why you want to join the course and your expectations.
Step 2. You will be called for an online interview.
Contacts
Contact in Brasil: Shanti Brasil Institute, Rio de Janeiro
E-mail: contato@shantibrasil.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +55 21 979 590 585
Contact in India:
Mahatma Gandhi Mission University
Dept of Gandhian Studies, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies
E-mail: deaninterdisciplinary@mgmu.ac.in
Phone: +91 9 421 925 146
Contact in Mexico: Fernando Ferrara, Monterrey
E-mail: fferrara@hexagonosmexicanos.com
Phone: +52 1 81 8252 5222
“In a gentle way, you can
shake the world.”
(Mahatma Gandhi)
Obs. This is not the official website of the MGM University. We are from Shanti Brasil Institute, partner of them.