1. Introduction

The Orapuh College of Scholars (OCS) is dedicated to nurturing an exceptional academic and professional environment through its Orapuh Fellowship Programme (OFP), Orapuh Postdoctoral Programme (Orapuh Postdoc), and Orapuh Scholar Master Class (OSMC). A key element of these programmes is the role of mentors, who provide guidance, support, and inspiration to scholars, helping them to realise their full potential. This policy outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and procedures related to the role of mentors within OCS.

2. Purpose of the Mentorship Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Define the role and responsibilities of mentors.
  • Establish guidelines for mentor-mentee relationships.
  • Ensure that mentorship contributes positively to the academic and professional growth of scholars.
  • Promote a supportive, inclusive, and respectful mentoring environment.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all mentors involved in the Orapuh Fellowship Programme (OFP), Orapuh Postdoctoral Programme (Orapuh Postdoc), and Orapuh Scholar Master Class (OSMC).

4. Role and Responsibilities of Mentors

4.1 Guidance and Support
  • Academic Guidance: Mentors shall provide academic guidance to scholars, including advice on research design, methodology, and ethics.
  • Career Development: Mentors should assist scholars in setting career goals, identifying opportunities for professional development, and networking within their field.
  • Personal Development: Mentors shall support the personal growth of scholars by promoting work-life balance, self-reflection, and resilience.
4.2 Research and Scholarly Activities
  • Research Supervision: Mentors are expected to supervise the research activities of their mentees, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and the production of high-quality work.
  • Publication Guidance: Mentors should assist scholars in preparing manuscripts for publication, offering guidance on writing, submission, and responding to peer reviews.
  • Grant Application Support: Mentors should provide advice on identifying funding opportunities and preparing grant applications.
4.3 Feedback and Evaluation
  • Regular Meetings: Mentors are expected to meet regularly with their mentees to discuss progress, provide feedback, and address any concerns.
  • Constructive Feedback: Mentors shall provide timely, constructive, and actionable feedback on the mentees’ work.
  • Evaluation: Mentors are responsible for conducting periodic evaluations of their mentees’ progress and providing reports to the programme administrators.
4.4 Professional Conduct
  • Ethical Behaviour: Mentors must adhere to the highest ethical standards, including respect for confidentiality and academic integrity.
  • Respect and Inclusivity: Mentors shall foster an inclusive environment that respects the diversity of scholars, including their backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
  • Boundary Management: Mentors must maintain appropriate professional boundaries with their mentees and avoid any conflicts of interest.

5. Mentorship Process and Procedures

5.1 Mentor Selection
  • Eligibility: Mentors should possess significant experience and expertise in their respective fields, with a strong track record of research, teaching, and/or professional practice.
  • Appointment: Mentors will be appointed by the programme administration based on their qualifications, experience, and alignment with the needs of the scholars.
  • Membership: Mentors are usually members of the Orapuh College of Scholars.
5.2 Matching Mentors with Mentees
  • Mentee Needs: The matching process will consider the specific academic and professional needs of the mentee.
  • Compatibility: Efforts will be made to ensure compatibility between the mentor and mentee in terms of research interests, working style, and career goals.
5.3 Mentorship Understanding
  • Mentorship Plan: Mentors and mentees should collaboratively develop a mentorship plan that outlines the goals, expectations, and frequency of meetings. However, mentors are not required to sign any agreement or contract.
  • Documentation: The mentorship plan should be documented and submitted to the programme administration for review.

6. Mentorship Evaluation and Accountability

6.1 Mentor Performance Review
  • Annual Review: The performance of mentors will be reviewed annually based on feedback from mentees, self-assessment, and programme outcomes.
  • Continuous Improvement: Mentors are encouraged to seek opportunities for professional development to enhance their mentoring skills.
6.2 Addressing Issues
  • Conflict Resolution: Any conflicts or issues that arise between mentors and mentees should be reported to the Orapuh Redress and Disciplinary Committee, which will facilitate a resolution.
  • Mentor Accountability: Mentors are responsible to the Lead Mentor through the Chief Fellow.

7. Support and Resources for Mentors

  • Training: OCS will provide training sessions and resources to mentors to help them develop effective mentoring skills.
  • Community: Mentors will have access to a community of peers for sharing best practices and supporting each other in their roles.

8. Confidentiality and Data Protection

  • Confidentiality: Mentors must respect the confidentiality of any personal or professional information shared by their mentees.
  • Data Protection: Mentors must comply with OCS’s data protection policies when handling any information related to their mentees.

9. Conclusion

Mentors play a critical role in the success of the Orapuh College of Scholars’ programmes. This policy aims to ensure that mentorship at OCS is effective, ethical, and beneficial to both mentors and mentees. By adhering to this policy, mentors will contribute to a thriving academic community that supports the development of future leaders and scholars.