THIS year, 16 vibrant Zambians from various backgrounds and professions have been awarded a Commonwealth scholarship to study at different prestigious universities in the UK. The programme aims to complement Zambia’s developmental agenda by strategically selecting Zambians in specific disciplines and match them with appropriate universities in the UK. The programme will further provide skills in the key sectors which drive the country’s development and expose the beneficiaries to international networks.
The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) is one of the largest and most prestigious scholarships schemes for international study in the world. This year, the CSFP adds 16 scholars to over 700 Zambian commonwealth alumni who have been on this scholarship. On 1 September 2021, the British Council Zambia on behalf of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) is hosting a pre-departure briefing to the newly awarded scholars to welcome them and prepare them for their study and stay in the UK.
Commonwealth Scholarships, which are open to citizens of the Commonwealth, have been running since 1959. The scholarships are targeted at individuals with intellectual ability, leadership potential and a personal commitment to development, providing them with study opportunities in other Commonwealth countries. The years cohort of 16 scholars includes nine PhD students and seven master’s students who will be joining a global community of 35,000 Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows who have been funded through the CSC programme.
Nicholas Woolley, British High Commissioner to Zambia said,
“The majority of scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), with the aim of fostering links and enhancing opportunities with Commonwealth partners like Zambia. The scheme offers education and cultural experiences to talented and motivated individuals to gain the knowledge and skills required for sustainable development. This year, we have scholars who will be studying at some of the world’s top universities and we believe they will gain the necessary skills to contribute to Zambia’s long-term development.”
David Pardoe, Country Director British Council said,
“Congratulations to this year’s cohort of commonwealth scholars from Zambia. They are going to study environment/climate change, economics, renewable energy and health, all themes of great importance to Zambia. Since 1962, we have supported over 700 scholars who have gone on to make major contributions to civil society, education, finance and infrastructure. This programme is an important part of cultural relations between Zambia and the UK. I wish all the scholars a great and successful experience”
The programme is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and is administered by the British Council and the Association of Commonwealth Universities in the UK (ACU).
