Chevening Scholarships are the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), partner organisations, and partner universities. The scholarships support study at UK universities – mostly one-year-taught master’s degrees – for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers and opinion formers.

In a press release by the Governor’s Office, Governor John Rankin urged Virgin Islanders to submit applications for the programme in 2023/24, at an event held at Government House to congratulate this year’s Chevening Scholarship recipients Aqueelah Harrigan and Kirsten Lettsome.

Harrigan will be studying for an LLM in Bar Vocational Studies at City, University of London and Lettsome will be pursuing studies for an MA in Education (Science) at University College London.

Governor Rankin congratulated the successful recipients and said that there is no such thing as a “typical” Chevening Scholar and that the United Kingdom Government’s Chevening Scholarships are awarded to individuals from all backgrounds who can demonstrate that they have the commitment and skills required to create positive change and can also show how a UK master’s degree will help them do that.

“There is no age, race, gender, or religious requirement. Chevening Scholars are defined by their energy, curiosity, compassion a clear vision for their future,” Governor Rankin said.

“If you are passionate about driving change, whether on a local or global scale, if you want to be the best at what you do and if you have the imagination to inspire others, then a Chevening scholarship could be the perfect opportunity for you,” he added

The Governor also noted that successful applicants will join the Chevening alumni network that is full of dynamic influencers who have shared the same experience.

“The alumni network can offer encouragement, mentorship, advice, and contacts. There is a lot to gain from submitting a thoughtful application and I would encourage interested persons to visit chevening.org and apply before the deadline” Rankin said.

Minister for Education Sharie de Castro, who is a previous Chevening alumnus, was also present at the event to congratulate the recipients and wish them well on their upcoming move and studies.

Chevening Scholarships offer full financial support for scholars to study for any eligible master’s degree at any UK university whilst also gaining access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional, and cultural experiences.

The deadline to submit applications is November 1 this year via chevening.org/apply.

Since the Chevening Scholarship programme was created in 1983, more than 50,000 professionals have had the opportunity to develop in the UK through Chevening. There are more than 1,500 scholarships on offer globally for the 2023/2024 academic year.