The Bangladesh High Commission in London hosted a reception on Friday to honour Bangladeshi students currently studying in the United Kingdom under the Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship programmes.
The event, held at the High Commission premises, brought together 40 Bangladeshi scholars pursuing higher studies at various UK universities. Officials from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Commonwealth Secretariat, Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, and the British Council in Dhaka were also present at the gathering.
Abida Islam, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to the UK, congratulated the scholars for their outstanding academic achievements and said their success made Bangladesh proud. She noted that earning these prestigious international scholarships not only distinguished the individuals but also helped strengthen the long-standing friendship and partnership between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom.
The High Commissioner assured the students that the High Commission would continue to provide all possible support to them throughout their stay in the UK.
Stephen Forbes, Country Director of the British Council in Bangladesh, appreciated the role of these scholarships in deepening the cultural and educational ties between the two countries.
Andrew Chadwick, Director of the Chevening Secretariat, expressed a desire to increase the number of scholarships offered to Bangladeshi students, although he mentioned the challenge of limited funding. He added that steps are being taken to engage with different organisations and companies to expand future opportunities.
Maggie Goncalves, Senior Programme Officer at the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, highlighted how these scholarships are linked to economic and social progress. She encouraged scholars to use their skills and knowledge for the development of their communities after returning home.
The event concluded with a networking session among the scholars and guests.