Islamabad (TDI): The 2023-24 cohort of Pakistani scholars, funded by the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships, has returned to Pakistan after completing advanced studies in public policy, health sciences, climate change, and business at leading institutions across the United Kingdom.
These scholars, hailing from about every region of Pakistan, now join a robust network of over 3,500 alumni who have made significant contributions to government, media, business, and civil society.
The impact of these scholarships is evident in the remarkable achievements of past alumni.
Among them are distinguished leaders such as the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Yahya Afridi; Supreme Court Judge Justice Athar Minallah; Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chief Commissioner of Islamabad Capital Territory; Zulfiqar Younis, Additional Secretary for Climate Finance; Abia Akram, Founder of the National Forum of Women with Disabilities; and Maha Kamal, Co-Chair of Women in Energy.
These individuals represent the transformative potential of the Chevening and Commonwealth programs, which have consistently strengthened leaders capable of shaping policy and sustaining social progress.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, in her remarks, focused on the significance of these scholarships.
“Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are among the UK’s most prestigious opportunities for Pakistanis,” she stated.
“These scholars return empowered by a world-class education, global networks, fresh ideas, and the ambition to create a real impact in Pakistan. Studying at UK universities is no easy feat, and I offer them my highest congratulations.”
Thrilled to welcome Pakistan’s brightest minds back home from the UK! With world-class education, new networks & fresh ideas, the @CheveningFCDO and Commonwealth Scholars are ready to shape Pakistan’s future. Excited to see what they achieve next! pic.twitter.com/4Gkdjk8JU9
— Jane Marriott (@JaneMarriottUK) February 26, 2025
Oneir Raza, a Chevening scholar from Pakistan’s education sector, shared his personal experience, describing it as “remarkable.”
In addition to academic excellence, the British High Commission has launched climate-focused initiatives to engage Chevening alumni in addressing Pakistan’s pressing environmental challenges.
These include debates on climate change impacts and solutions held in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad and a climate mentorship scheme pairing 13 students with 8 Chevening alumni mentors.
These programs aim to develop Pakistani climate leadership, spark critical dialogue, and convene experts to create tangible solutions to the country’s climate crisis.
Moreover, applications for Commonwealth Scholarships will open in September 2025, while Chevening Scholarships will accept applications starting in August 2025.
The Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships continue to serve as a cornerstone of UK-Pakistan collaboration, encouraging individuals to become catalysts for change in their communities.
As these scholars return home, they carry with them the knowledge and skills acquired abroad and a shared vision for Pakistan’s brighter, more sustainable future.
A dedicated writer and avid observer of the evolving world of international relations. My passion for geopolitics was ignited during my academic journey, where I excelled in competitive exams, and it has since become the cornerstone of my writing career. I am driven by an insatiable curiosity about the complex interplay of global forces that shape our world.
