From David Onuoja Abuja
The British High Commission in Nigeria has celebrated about 191 (44 Chevening and 147 Commonwealth) Nigerians, who have completed their scholarship studies in the United Kingdom; through the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships who pursued a wide range of master’s degree, PhD, and fellowship programmes.
Speaking at the welcoming ceremony in Abuja and Lagos respectively, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr Jonny Baxter said, “We are incredibly proud of the 191 Nigerian Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars who have successfully completed their studies in the UK.
“This milestone represents not only your hard work and dedication but also the impact of these Scholarship Programmes.
“I encourage you to use your new knowledge, skills and experience for the betterment of your communities, your sectors and your country. Challenge yourselves, collaborate with each other, and always strive for the best. We look forward to seeing your contributions to Nigeria and globally.”, he said.
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At both events, the scholars and fellows were celebrated for their exceptional academic achievements, received their completion certificates and were officially inducted into the Chevening and Commonwealth alumni community in Nigeria.
They also shared their academic journeys and experiences as well as their preparedness to use the skills and knowledge developed during their studies to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
One of the Chevening Scholar, Daniel Onwe, who studied International Law and Development from the University of Nottingham, UK, said: “Chevening experience is simply life-transforming.
“As a person with disability and a disability rights activist, Chevening exposed me to have a first-hand experience of what an inclusive society should be – you equally participate and engage, without being made to feel like the odd man out.
“In addition, to what I learnt from the classroom, the people taught me so much, not just about the rich British culture, but also about the different countries of the world and global politics. Chevening, undoubtedly, is a game changer.”
Also, Commonwealth Scholar, who studied International Energy Law & Policy (LLM), from the University of Dundee, UK, said: “Being a Commonwealth Scholar has been the privilege of a lifetime. I had the opportunity to expand my knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the nuanced position for solving international energy issues through world class institutions and a diverse student perspective.
“The opportunity to explore the UK and other countries and being able to participate in professional development workshops was culturally stimulating. I have made new invaluable friends across the globe. I am eternally grateful for my new academic achievements and look forward to the next decade with positivity and purpose”.
Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are awarded annually by the UK Government to individuals from all walks of life who demonstrate that they have the commitment and skills required to create positive change annually.
Chevening Scholarships are the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), partner organisations, and partner universities.
The scholarships support study at UK universities – mostly one year taught master’s degrees – for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers.
Chevening began in 1983 and has developed into a prestigious international awards scheme. Chevening Scholars come from over 160 countries and territories worldwide, and over the past five years we have awarded almost 10,000 scholarships. There are over 55,000 Chevening Alumni around the world who comprise an influential and highly regarded global network.
Commonwealth Scholarships are managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK. Since 1960, the CSC has funded over 31,000 individuals to study in the UK and gain skills, acquire knowledge, and build networks to tackle global development challenges.
To date, over 31,000 people have taken up a Commonwealth Scholarship or Fellowship since the first group of 175 Scholars arrived in the UK in 1960. Globally, Commonwealth alumni include Prime Ministers and cabinet ministers, Nobel Prize winners, academics, diplomats, writers, and leaders in major NGOs and businesses.
Nigeria has a huge alumni base with over 4500 (3000+ Commonwealth and 1500+ Chevening) alumni across both scholarships with very prestigious people impacting and contributing to Nigeria’s development.
