UK wants more PH scholars

The government of the United Kingdom hopes to send more Filipino scholars in 2013, as the prestigious international Chevening Scholarships marks its 30th year.

Applications for scholarships  will be accepted until Jan. 2.

British Ambassador to the Philippines Stephen Lillie said the UK Embassy in Manila was hoping to send a record number of scholars to top UK schools next year, more than the 12 for 2012.

The annual Chevening Scholarship provides a yearlong master’s degree grant to top UK universities.

Lillie said, during the launch of the 2013 program, “In 2012, we were able to expand the number of scholarships through a new partnership with Cambridge University.  Looking to 2013, I would like us to be able to forge additional partnerships, which will allow us to increase the number of Chevening Scholars …”

He said  the embassy was tapping private companies, like the British pharmaceutical firm GlaxoSmithKline, as potential sponsors.

Lillie said education was a vital link between the Philippines and the United Kingdom.

“British alumni are, in fact, a very visible expression of the friendship between our two countries …  . The growing number of excellent young achievers, returning from the UK to the Philippines gives me confidence that the UK-Philippine relationship will continue to go from strength to strength,” said Lillie.

Interested applicants may access the online application on www.chevening.org.