Islamabad: Fifty-three talented Pakistanis were formally awarded Chevening scholarships today by the British High Commissioner Thomas Drew. These scholarships are for the academic year 2019/20.

The scholars were selected through a highly competitive process and will shortly proceed to the UK to study a one year master’s programme, fully funded by the UK government. For the 2019/20 intake, over 3000 mid-career professionals applied for the scheme from across Pakistan.

The High Commissioner presented the scholars with a certificate confirming their award and wished them success in the coming year.The event was attended by Chevening scholars, officials from the British High Commission and members of the Chevening alumni.

The British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Thomas Drew said: “I would like to congratulate the 53 new Chevening scholars on their achievement. Chevening is a unique experience, allowing scholars to study at some of the world’s most prestigious universities, to boost their career prospects and network with scholars from around the world.”

“The scholars will now join an influential network of nearly Chevening 2000 alumni, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields. Our Chevening scholars always make the most of their time in the UK. Along with their studies, they are able to explore British culture and values, heritage and history. On their return to Pakistan, they will come back with new perspectives, a wealth of connections and a rich experience that will further strengthen the links between our two countries,” he said.

The scholars have chosen courses at the UK’s top universities including the London School of Economics and Political Science, Oxford University, SOAS, University of London, King’s College London, the University of Sussex, the University of Warwick, the University of Leeds and Queen Mary University London among many others.

Applications for Chevening Scholarships to study in the UK in 2020/2021 are open between 5th August and 5th November 2019.