The British Council in India, on behalf of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission hosted a Welcome Back Reception for recent returnees on Thursday, 20 February 2025 jointly with Chevening Scholarships. The event, held at the British High Commissioner’s residence celebrated the successful return of Commonwealth and Chevening Scholars. The reception was graced by several prominent dignitaries, beginning with a welcome address by Ms Lindy Cameron CB OBE, the British High Commissioner to India. In her speech, she welcomed scholars and guests including Emma Hennessey, Head of Scholarships Unit, FCDO UK, Professor Robin Mason, Chair of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, Commonwealth and Chevening alumni, British Council colleagues, and others present.
As part of the evening’s programme, several recent graduates from both the Commonwealth and Chevening programmes were invited to share their experiences. Emma Hennessey congratulated the scholars for their achievements, while Professor Robin Mason addressed the guests, emphasising the significance of their journeys. The reception saw the participation of 30 recent Commonwealth graduates, 35 distinguished Commonwealth alumni, and 60 fresh graduates and alumni from the Chevening programme proved to be an excellent platform for networking, providing an opportunity to exchange insights while celebrating the academic successes and future aspirations of the scholars.
Emma Hennessey, and Professor Robin Mason, on their visit to India in February 2025, also had the opportunity to meet with Key Commonwealth Alumni at the British Council. The meeting between Emma, Robin and Commonwealth Alumni, proved to be a fruitful discussion, highlighting both past achievements and future opportunities.