By Cindy B. Ferrer

ILOILO CITY, March 24 (PNA) – – British Ambassador Asif Ahmad on Friday urged the students in this city to avail of the United Kingdom’s government scholarship.

Speaking before students of the University of Iloilo, Ambassador Ahmad introduced the Chevening Scholarship program, which aimed to develop professionally and academically future leaders, influencers and decision makers and enable them to experience the culture and build lasting positive relationships with UK.

The wealth of benefits of being awarded a Chevening scholarship include fully-funded tuition fees, set living expenses, return flights to the UK, a vast engagement program, including exclusive networking events, volunteering opportunities, talks and trips across the UK.

In his speech, Ahmad recalled that three years ago, they were able to fund eight students from the Philippines as Chevening scholars. He expressed hope to be able to gather more students here as UK increased its funding for the program.

A a Chevening scholar, one could “select subjects you wish and select any university in UK, cheaper or expensive.”

He said that nothing will be demanded from their successful graduates other than what they could contribute to make their country become further progressive.

“We want you to come back and help this country develop and create a future that your country deserves,” Ahmad told the students.

Meanwhile, Senator Franklin Drilon encouraged the students to appreciate the value of education and the British system of education that is being exposed to them.

Chevening scholars could choose among 122 different UK universities. Two-thirds of its more than 46,000 Chevening alumni have already received an immediate career boost on returning home.

For more details on how to apply for the scholarship program, one is encouraged to visit their website at www.chevening.org/apply. (PNA)