Departing Commonwealth scholars in September 2024 with the British Council officials

The British Council of Sri Lanka successfully hosted an interactive and informative pre-departure briefing for the 2024 group of Commonwealth scholars as they prepared for their departure. 

Held at the British Council library, the event provided the five scholars chosen this year with valuable information, tips and updates about the UK in order to ensure a smooth transition to their respective university destinations in the UK. 

Commonwealth Scholarships are given by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) to talented individuals with the potential to make a positive impact on the global stage and in their home country. 
The briefing event was attended by the departing group of scholars and a gathering of the Commonwealth scholars alumni of different ages and fields of expertise, led by the British Council Education Programmes Manager Hamzi Haniff.

This year’s group of scholars from Sri Lanka are pursuing postgraduate qualifications in diverse fields of study, including marine biology, economics, public policy, finance and accounting and city, planning and design. During the event, the group was guided through the various resources and guidelines provided by the CSC. The session also covered all vital aspects of moving to the UK, including visa and travel, settling in and adjusting to life in the UK, accommodation, managing finances, living safely, anti-discrimination policies and personal safety. The alumni members present at the event shared their insights with the scholars about their personal experiences during their respective stints in the UK. They emphasised on the importance of gaining an all-round experience of academics and social life.

Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) under six development themes. Applications for the upcoming Commonwealth Scholarship schemes will open on September 10, 2024. Applications must be made through the Higher Education Ministry, the nominating agency for Sri Lanka. Candidates must apply and secure admission to study an approved Master’s course at a participating UK university in addition to applying for a Commonwealth Shared Scholarship via the CSC’s online application system.