Celebrating Chevening at 40 in Nigeria
The 40th Chevening Anniversary reception was hosted in Nigeria, celebrating Chevening recipients' achievements and highlighting benefits of studying in the UK
Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter delivering his opening remarks
In Lagos, the Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, hosted the Chevening 40th Anniversary reception in Nigeria. The event served as an excellent platform to celebrate the legacy of Chevening at 40 and to increase awareness about the benefits of pursuing education in the UK.
The event, held under the theme ‘Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence,’ featured a sub-theme that focused on Empowering Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Among the distinguished attendees were Chevening alumni members in Nigeria, alumni from other UK universities, prospective Chevening scholars, and friends of the mission.
At the reception, panel sessions focused on the advantages of studying in the UK, especially considering that the UK is a top destination for Nigerian students pursuing higher education in 2024. Additionally, the importance of STEM education for women, and its role in building a sustainable economy, was a prominent subject of discussion.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, said:
The Chevening Scholarship Programme has not only transformed the lives of thousands of individuals but has also played a vital role in shaping a brighter future for our world. We take pride in the achievements of our alumni, who, through their education and experiences, have contributed to the improvement of Nigeria and the world at large. Yet, as we celebrate, I also want to recognise the importance of another crucial theme – promoting women in STEM education. The UK government believes strongly in gender equality and inclusion, and our programs reflect this. We understand that excellence knows no gender, and access to education should be open to all, regardless of background and identity.
Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Chevening Alumni Association of Nigeria, Dr John Momoh, said:
For four decades, the Chevening Scholarship programme has been a beacon of open opportunities, enabling Nigerians to pursue higher education in the UK. We honour the achievements of Chevening alumni and reaffirm our commitment to nurture excellence. As we reflect on the past and look toward the future, let us remember that the knowledge and values instilled in us during our time as scholars should continue to shape our lives and the world around us.
Chevening has been a symbol of academic achievement and leadership development, and has enabled over 1,500 Nigerians in the past 39 years to transform their careers and make significant contributions to society. This anniversary serves as a pivotal moment to reflect on the programme’s incredible journey, recognise the accomplishments of Chevening alumni, and set the course for the future.
Background:
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Chevening Scholarships are the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth, & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations. The scholarships support one-year taught master’s degrees at UK universities for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers.
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Chevening Scholarships are awarded to individuals from all backgrounds who can demonstrate that they have the commitment and skills required to become future leaders, and can show how a UK master’s degree will help them create positive change in their country. The scholarship offers full financial support for scholars to study for any eligible master’s degree at over 150 UK universities, while also gaining access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional, and cultural experiences.
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Since the inception of Chevening in 1983 and 1984 globally and in Nigeria respectively, the UK government has sponsored over 55,000 globally and 1500 Nigerians to undertake one-year master’s programmes in the UK.
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Visit Chevening, for more information.