30 New Egyptian Scholars Head to UK for Chevening

The British Ambassador to Egypt, Gareth Bayley, hosted a farewell ceremony for 30 Chevening scholars, offering them heartfelt wishes as they prepare to embark on their journey to the UK for their one-year Master’s degree, at world-class British Universities. The ambassador emphasized the significance of the fully funded Chevening scholarship programme, which aims to foster global leaders and promote mutual understanding between the UK and Egypt.

The departing scholars of the 2024-2025 cohort, of which 50% are females, represent seven different Egyptian governorates. Their studies expand across diverse sectors including Railway operations, Drug development, Climate Change Finance, Cancer Biology, Finance, Law, Development, International Relations, Education and Communication. BP, British pioneering company in oil and gas, and one of the UK’s greatest investors in Egypt, is sponsoring one scholar studying at the University of York.

Chevening alumnus Mr. Maged Shawky, Chairman and partner of Catalyst Partners Holding, spoke to the students about making the most of this excellent opportunity to expand their knowledge as they work on creating positive impact in Egyptian society.

Mr. Maged Shawky said: ““For over 40 years, the Chevening programme has been providing Egyptian youth with opportunities that are considered huge milestones in their career development and life experiences. Without a doubt, the Chevening Alumni have contributed greatly to Egypt’s growth and progress across diverse sectors.”

British Ambassador to Egypt, Gareth Bayley, said: “In my third year as Ambassador to Egypt, the passion and ambition of these empowered young men and women never ceases to amaze. Chevening is not only a programme that opens doors for future leaders through education, but also fosters lasting connections between the UK and Egypt. Together, we are building a network of change-makers dedicated to addressing global challenges and promoting mutual understanding. I wish our departing Chevening scholars all the best in the UK and look forward to seeing how these scholars will use their experiences to serve their beloved country of Egypt.”

There are more than 1,500 scholarships on offer globally for the 2024-2025 academic year, representing a significant investment from the UK Government towards developing the leaders of tomorrow. More than 1500 Egyptians have been accepted in the programme since its launch in Egypt, just over 40 years ago.

Prominent Egyptian Chevening alumni include several influential figures who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Among them are HE Ahmed Kouchouk, Minister of Finance; HE Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union Commission; HE Dr. Mohamed Farid Saleh, Chairman of the Financial Regulatory Authority; and Dr. Sherif Kamel, Dean of the School of Business at the American University in Cairo (AUC).

Applications for next year’s UK government’s Chevening Scholarship scheme are now open and will close on 5 November 2024. All Egyptian nationals with an undergraduate degree, at least two years of work experience and who meet an English language requirement are eligible to apply via www.chevening.org/apply.