The Mediation Masterclass (the Masterclass) is a comprehensive, 100-hour, hands-on training programme in mediation. 

Its objective is to build a robust network of competent mediation professionals — to train participants in all aspects of mediation and equip them to take on one or more roles in the mediation ecosystem, including as a mediator, mediation advocate, teacher or coach, commentator, or as a lawyer guiding clients on appropriate dispute resolution processes.

The Masterclass is offered in three tiers*:

• Foundational Course (36 Hours)

12 lectures (total 24 hours) and 12 small-class tutorials (total 12 hours), conducted online via Zoom. 

• Intermediate Course (24 Hours)

6 workshops (total 18 hours) and 6 briefing sessions (total 6 hours), conducted online via Zoom.

• Advanced Course (40 Hours) 

10 in-person workshops (total 35 hours) and 5 online briefing sessions (total 5 hours), with special emphasis on the process of mediation.

* To advance to the next level, participants must maintain at least 80% attendance and achieve a minimum of 50% in all learning modules assessed at the preceding level. Foundational: Written assessment (90 minutes). Intermediate: Viva (15–20 minutes). Advanced: Continuous performance-based evaluation during the course, and one end-of-the-course assessment.

The Masterclass focuses on the following key learning areas: 

• The Idea of Mediation

Develop a clear understanding of the context, concept, features, and legal framework of mediation. 

• The Suitability of Mediation 

Learn when and how to choose mediation over other dispute resolution processes. 

• The Inception of Mediation 

Gain the skills to draft valid and enforceable mediation agreements.

•  The Process of Mediation 

Understand the stages of mediation and the overarching influences, and learn how to conduct a mediation effectively. 

• The Outcome of Mediation 

Learn to draft mediated settlement agreements that are legally sound and enforceable.

Participants who meet the attendance requirements and secure at least 50% in the assessment will be awarded the appropriate Certificate in Mediation—Foundational, Intermediate, or Advanced—upon payment of the prescribed fee.

Each certificate briefly mentions the learning modules covered and the nature of the workshop. Outstanding performers may be specifically mentioned.

While the Masterclass may occasionally include guest speakers, workshop facilitators, and panellists, the principal instructor and facilitator of the Masterclass will be Rajesh C. Muttath. 

• Rajesh C. Muttath is an ADR enthusiast whose primary professional focus is the law and practice of Alternative Dispute Resolution, including negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. He writes and speaks on ADR, teaches and trains professionals, conceives and executes strategic ADR courses and events, and practises ADR. (View his fuller profile here.) 

He typically employs a diverse range of teaching methods, including lectures, Socratic colloquies, panel discussions, role-plays, group discussions, debates, mini-moots, workshops, and problem-solving exercises, as appropriate.

• Foundational Course: Rs 3,500/- (including one assessment)

• Intermediate Course: Rs 6,500/- (including one assessment)

• Advanced Course: Rs 15,000/-

• Repeat Assessments: Rs 500/- each

* Given that the objective of The Mediation Society is to promote mediation across Kerala, it typically offers subsidised rates and may grant full or partial fee waivers to deserving individuals. For details, refer to the specific edition of the Masterclass.