Prospective Commonwealth Scholarship applicants had the chance to learn more about Commonwealth Scholarships directly from Malawian Commonwealth alumni at an event held at the Malawi-Liverpool Wellcome Trust in Blantyre in August 2016. The event, which was hosted by Prof Brian Faragher (Commonwealth Scholarship Commissioner and Chair in Medical Statistics at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine) also provided information about the history of the CSC, the different schemes available, and how to apply.
Philip Kamwendo, Programme Manager at the British Council in Malawi, opened the event by emphasising the importance of alumni staying in touch after their award, and forming an active network committed to development in Malawi – he pledged his support for the formation of a local alumni association. Prof Faragher also spoke about the role of alumni networks in supporting development, and encouraged collaboration between alumni in related employment areas to further strengthen their commitment.
Following the opening speeches, alumni attended a networking reception, while Prof Faragher delivered a presentation to prospective applicants on the scholarship application process and answered questions from those gathered. The event ended with both groups attending a networking buffet which offered a unique opportunity for prospective applicants to talk to alumni directly about their experiences of being a Commonwealth Scholar, and learn more about their careers since completing their award.
399 Malawian nationals have held a Commonwealth Scholarship or Fellowship funded by the UK government. There are currently 61 Malawian Scholars on award, 27 of them on Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships. If you are a Commonwealth alumnus from Malawi and are interested in setting up a local alumni association or networking with fellow alumni, please contact us at alumni@cscuk.org.uk
