Row of people seated in a hall
CSC Alumni South Africa

Pre-departure briefing and panel discussion: The impact of COVID-19 on mental health and wellbeing
Date: 26/08/2021
Duration: 10:00-12:10 (SAST)
Location: Online

Meet 2021 Commonwealth Scholars from South Africa, Eswatini, and Namibia as they prepare for their studies in the UK

On behalf of the CSC, the British Council will host a pre-departure briefing for 2021 Commonwealth Scholars from South Africa, Eswatini, and Namibia. The pre-departure briefing aims to provide new Scholars with information on living and studying in the UK. This includes preparations they will need to make before they travel, arrival in the UK, and staying safe during their time in the UK. Additionally, the briefing provides guidance and signposting for visa and immigration information and accommodation.

Following the pre-departure briefing, Scholars are welcome to join Commonwealth Alumni for a panel discussion the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and wellbeing. The event will focus on identifying shared challenges and opportunities associated with the lockdown and explore ways of improving or mitigating these challenges and risks. Recently returned Scholars will have the opportunity to share their experiences of studying in the UK during the pandemic and share advice to new Scholars.

Event programme

10:00- 11:00  Pre-departure briefing for 2021 Commonwealth Scholars

  • Opening remarks from the British Council Country Director
  • A congratulatory message from the DHET, the nominating agency in South Africa
  • Presentation on living and studying in the UK
  • Q&A session with representatives from the British Council, UKVI, and the CSC alumni association in South Africa

11:10-12:00  Panel discussion: The impact of COVID-19 on mental health and wellbeing

The panel will include presentations from Commonwealth Alumni working in the area of mental health and/or COVID-19.

To be confirmed