Chevening Scholars Welcomed To Northern Ireland

Employment and Learning Minister, Maria Eagle, has welcomed this year's Chevening Scholars to Northern Ireland.

Chevening Scholarships are prestigious awards which enable overseas students to study in the UK. They are on offer in more than 150 countries and enable tomorrow's leaders from overseas to become familiar with the UK, our institutions and companies, links which can continue throughout their careers.

Speaking at a reception in Adelaide House, Belfast for the Chevening Scholars, the Minister praised the Programme, highlighting its importance in developing long-term relationships between UK institutions and the international community.

The Minister said: "Chevening is an inspirational programme that continues to enjoy remarkable success. Not only is it the flagship programme of the Government's Scholarship scheme, it has for many years, been one of the UK's most effective means of creating and developing long-lasting relationships with the international community.

"To be a Chevening Scholar carries with it a certain weight of responsibility - but it is a responsibility of distinction. You are not only a young ambassador for your country abroad, you also have that extra quality that will distinguish you and your achievements in your field of expertise."

The event was also attended by representatives from the higher education institutions in Northern Ireland, who host the scholars and from the British Council, who manage the programme on behalf of the Government.

(CD)