South Africa and Swaziland 2014-15 Chevening Scholars briefing
British High Commissioner Judith Macgregor briefs the 2014-15 scholars from South Africa and Swaziland, before they depart for the UK
British High Commissioner briefs the 2014-15 scholars from South Africa and Swaziland, before they depart for the UK
On Friday 15 August 2014, Judith Macgregor, the British High Commissioner, addressed 17 young Swazi and South Africans who have been selected to undertake postgraduate studies in the UK under the Chevening scholarships scheme.
The High Commissioner congratulated them on their achievements so far and wished them well for their studies and experiences in the UK. She briefed them on what they might expect during their time in the UK and how the Chevening experience will support them to become future leaders in South Africa and Swaziland.
The High Commissioner said that the Chevening programme benefits everyone: the UK, South Africa, Swaziland and the scholars. It is an important mechanism to build long-lasting bonds of friendships between the UK and South Africa, Swaziland and also Lesotho. The scholars are the future leaders of tomorrow, and Chevening gives them the skills and experiences to shape a positive future for all.
This year’s scholars will be studying a range of subjects from Medical Anthopology and Public Health to Gender development studies and Engineering for sustainable development. Marna de Bruyn, will be pursuing a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of Brighton. After having recently completed her public service in a rural community, Marna said “I am determined to ensure that this Chevening scholarship will not only benefit South Africa and the UK, but also people with disabilities across the globe.
Judith Macgregor, High Commissioner to South Africa addresses Chevening Scholars
Notes for editors:
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The Chevening Scholarships Programme is the UK government’s premier scholarship scheme, awarding scholarships to emerging young leaders across a wide range of fields.
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Chevening Scholarship Scheme which provides the opportunity for people from more than 110 countries around the world to study in the UK celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2014. A priority area in the United Kingdom’s relationship with South Africa, the UK has a long history of supporting education in South Africa. From providing quality English language materials and support for the Arts by the British Council to providing 200 young Black students with a university education though the British Undergraduate Funding Scheme (BrUFS) in the eighties and early nineties.
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Andrew Dell, CEO HSBC Africa, a long standing partner and supporter of the programme said: “HSBC partners with the Chevening Scholarship programme to broaden the international exposure of South Africans with a proven record of professional excellence and leadership potential so that they may return home and continue to contribute to the development of SA.”
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South Africa has approximately 390 Chevening scholars dating back to 1992. Many South Africa Chevening alumni have become notable faces in politics, business and the arts. These scholarships have been awarded with the generous financial support of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, as well as a number of companies and organisations that recognise the long term benefits that the programme can offer both to them and South Africa.
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In September more than 700 scholars from around the world, selected for their commitment to their country, proven track record of professional excellence and leadership potential will take a place at a university in the UK to read for a postgraduate degree after which they will join some 40 000 alumni in the greater International Chevening network.