Islamabad, 21 August 2023 (TDI): British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE commemorated a momentous occasion on August 21, 2023, as she celebrated the accomplishments of Pakistani scholars, honored with the highly esteemed Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships.
This year’s awardees, a total of 46 exceptional individuals, were selected through an intensely competitive process, demonstrating their extraordinary academic potential and commitment to excellence.
A noteworthy highlight of this year’s scholarship distribution is the inclusion of diversity and inclusivity. Among the recipients were two remarkable female Hindu students and a trans woman, embodying the spirit of embracing differences and fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and equality.
Alongside the Chevening scholarships, 23 accomplished Pakistani scholars were chosen for the Commonwealth scholarships, comprising 21 Masters and 2 PhD candidates. These gifted scholars were selected from across Pakistan, representing the nation’s diverse academic landscape.
In homage to the legacy of the late human rights champion Asma Jahangir, the British High Commissioner introduced the Asma Jahangir Award, presented to the top-ranking female Chevening scholar of the year.
In a remarkable tie, three exceptionally talented females were honored this year: Anila Yousaf and Zaitoon Kareem from Baluchistan, and Varsha Deepak from Sindh. This award was instituted in 2018 and has since recognized nine outstanding female Chevening scholars, perpetuating Asma Jahangir’s commitment to human rights and women’s empowerment.
A significant milestone this year is the introduction of Chevening scholarships facilitated by UK partners. The collaboration with Swindon Town Football Club offers a one-year Master’s degree in Football Coaching or Science, providing the opportunity to study at Solent University or the University Campus of Football Business at Wembley Stadium.
Furthermore, the partnership with the University of Essex presents two scholarships in the fields of climate change and heritage and museum studies.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG-OBE expressed her pride in sending 69 Pakistani students to the UK under the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Chevening program.
She emphasized the significance of the UK’s high-quality higher education and the far-reaching impact these scholarships would have on Pakistan’s brightest minds. The returning scholars are expected to contribute significantly to various sectors in Pakistan, thus further strengthening the UK-Pakistan relationship.
These scholars have exhibited remarkable diversity in their chosen fields of study and institutions. Ranging from education and social justice to architectural engineering and sustainability, these fields address pressing global challenges and stimulate innovation.
For aspiring scholars, applications for the Chevening Scholarships for the academic year 2024-25 will open on 12th September and close on 7th November. To learn more about eligibility criteria and the application process, please visit www.chevening.org.
The Commonwealth Scholarships for the year 2024/25 are expected to open for applications in late October or early November 2023. To access more information, kindly visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website.
