The Dr. Marjorie Fernandes Fellowship Programme is a six‑week remote internship initiative hosted by the Centre for Financial Accountability (CFA). Designed for undergraduate students, the fellowship offers a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most pressing issues shaping economies, public policy, social justice, finance, energy, and infrastructure.
More than a conventional internship, this programme encourages students to critically examine systems of power, understand the role of financial institutions, and contribute meaningfully to conversations around accountability, equity, sustainability, and democratic participation.
Rooted in the values and legacy of Dr. Marjorie Fernandes, the fellowship seeks to nurture young minds who are curious, socially conscious, and eager to make a difference.
About Dr. Marjorie Fernandes
Dr. Marjorie Fernandes is a retired Professor of Economics from Janki Devi Memorial College, University of Delhi, where she taught for over four decades . An alumna of Miranda House (DU) and the Delhi School of Economics, she was part of JNU’s first batch in 1971‑72 and later pursued study leave at Sussex University, UK, as a topper
Throughout her career, she was deeply committed to student welfare and women’s empowerment, often reflecting on how access to safe accommodations transformed her own early career. Motivated by this and real stories of women in crisis, upon retirement she donated generously to the University of Delhi Endowment Fund—specifically to support safe housing for women facing adversity
Her legacy lives on through the Marjorie Fernandes Scholarship at Janki Devi Memorial College. This annual scholarship, awarded to the best all‑round student of B.A. (Hons.) Economics (across I, II, and III years), recognizes academic excellence and holistic development.
The fellowship programme established in her name carries forward these values by creating spaces for young people to learn critically, engage deeply, and work towards a more just and accountable society.
About the Fellowship
At the Centre for Financial Accountability, fellows are encouraged to go beyond textbooks and classrooms. The programme offers direct exposure to real-world issues and ongoing work related to:
- Public finance and financial accountability
- National and international financial institutions
- Climate justice and just energy transitions
- Infrastructure and development projects
- Corporate accountability
- Public policy and governance
- Media, communications, and advocacy
- Grassroots movements and people’s struggles
Fellows may work across research, writing, media production, documentation, campaign support, communications, policy analysis, and outreach depending on their interests and the requirements of ongoing projects.
The programme combines mentorship, collaborative learning, and practical engagement, helping students build analytical skills, communication abilities, and a deeper understanding of contemporary socio-economic issues.
What Fellows Can Expect
A Meaningful Learning Experience
The fellowship provides students with the opportunity to engage with issues that directly affect people’s lives and livelihoods. Fellows are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and explore intersections between economics, finance, politics, ecology, and social justice.
Mentorship and Guidance
Participants receive mentorship from experienced researchers, campaigners, communication professionals, and policy practitioners associated with CFA.
Exposure to Contemporary Issues
Fellows gain insights into the functioning and impact of:
- International Financial Institutions (IFIs)
- National economic policies
- Public-private partnerships
- Energy and infrastructure sectors
- Development finance institutions
- Environmental and social accountability frameworks
Skill Building
The programme helps students strengthen skills in:
- Research and analysis
- Writing and documentation
- Public communication
- Media and digital outreach
- Advocacy support
- Team collaboration
- Critical thinking
Remote and Accessible
The fellowship is conducted remotely, enabling participation from students across different regions.
Fellowship Archives
The Dr. Marjorie Fernandes Fellowship Programme began in 2025 with the aim of creating meaningful learning spaces for undergraduate students interested in issues of finance, public policy, social justice, climate, and accountability.
Since its inception, the fellowship has brought together students from diverse academic backgrounds and institutions, encouraging critical engagement, collaborative learning, and practical exposure to ongoing work at CFA.
Explore the fellowship archives below to learn more about each cohort, their experiences, projects, and contributions.
Fellowship Cohorts
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