British High Commissioner Jane Marriott has extended an invitation to Pakistani students seeking scholarships at UK universities to apply for the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarship programs.
This year marks the 65th anniversary of the Commonwealth Scholarship program, with 46 Chevening and 47 Commonwealth scholarships awarded to Pakistani students, as stated in an official release from the British High Commission in Islamabad on Friday.
These well-established programs have cultivated a network of over 1,500 Commonwealth and nearly 2,000 Chevening alumni in Pakistan, who frequently gather to discuss current issues.
The statement highlighted that scholars come from diverse backgrounds, reflecting Pakistan’s rich cultural diversity, with this year’s cohort representing Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Pakistan-administered Kashmir, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and the Federal Capital Territory.
More than 60% of this year’s Chevening scholars are women. The British High Commission strongly encourages individuals from all regions and backgrounds in Pakistan to apply.
Addressing the students, High Commissioner Marriott offered guidance on living in the UK ahead of their studies at British universities.
She remarked, “The Chevening program helps to develop a new generation of Pakistani leaders and change-makers. Many of our alumni have achieved remarkable success upon returning home. They not only benefit from studying at some of the world’s top universities but also from experiencing life in the UK. From climate studies to football coaching, I am excited to see their future accomplishments and encourage all interested applicants to apply early.”
Fareeha Gull Hashmi, Assistant Manager of the Oral History Project at the Citizens Archive of Pakistan and an upcoming Chevening scholar, expressed her excitement about joining the University of Essex for her MA in Heritage and Museum Studies. She stated, “This program is exactly what I need to advance my efforts in heritage and cultural preservation in Pakistan. I am eager to begin this journey.”
The cohort includes a scholarship recipient in Football Science, supported by Swindon Town Football Club.
For the first time, this year’s group also includes an additional scholarship for Heritage and Museum Studies, supported by Essex University, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. A scholarship from the University of Essex for Climate Studies is also available this year, along with additional scholarships from the University of Birmingham.
Recently, the British High Commission launched Chevening Connect in Karachi, a new debate series bringing together industry experts and Chevening alumni. The inaugural debate focused on climate challenges, examining the technical, economic, and political leadership required to support Pakistan’s adaptation and resilience efforts.
Applications for Chevening Scholarships to study in the UK for the 2025-26 academic year will close on November 5. Applications for the South Asia Journalism Program, a two-month fellowship at the University of Westminster, are currently open and will close on October 10.
Additionally, applications for the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies fellowship, a five-month fellowship, are also open and will close on November 5, 2024. For more details on eligibility and to apply, visit chevening.org.
Applications for the Commonwealth Scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year will open later this year. More information can be found on the CSC website at cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk.
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