Issue 3 - Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the United ...
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NEWSPromot<strong>in</strong>g learn<strong>in</strong>g, development and co-operation<strong>Issue</strong> 3April 2007Look<strong>in</strong>g ahead: Education M<strong>in</strong>istersapprove CSFP expansionREPORT FROM 16TH CCEM • COUNTRY PROFILE – NEW ZEALAND • NEWS ROUND-UP • SCHOLARS’ NEWS •ALUMNI IN ACTION • LAUNCH OF NEW GENDER NETWORK • CSC EVENTS1
THIS ISSUECover<strong>Commonwealth</strong> EducationM<strong>in</strong>isters at <strong>the</strong> 16thConference <strong>in</strong> Cape Town,South Africa© An<strong>the</strong>a Davison2 Editorial3 News Round-upThe latest from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>.4-5 Scholars’ NewsNews, views and events of our currentscholars.6-7 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> EducationM<strong>in</strong>isters look to <strong>the</strong> futureA report from <strong>the</strong> 16th Conference of<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>isters.8-9 Alumni <strong>in</strong> ActionAn update on <strong>the</strong> activities of ouralumni.10 Professional Networks andCSC EventsReports from recent network sem<strong>in</strong>arsand events.11 Country Profile – New ZealandThe first <strong>in</strong> a new series of articles about<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternational <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> and Fellowship Plan.<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News(formerly Omnes)Editorial Team:Dr John Kirkland, Sarah Humphreys,Anna O’Flynn and Natasha LokhunDesign:John KirbyPr<strong>in</strong>t:dsi colourworksEDITORIALProfessor Trudy HarphamAs many of you will be aware, <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong>s are approach<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir fiftiethanniversary. The <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) was set up at <strong>the</strong> firstmeet<strong>in</strong>g of all <strong>the</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>isters of <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>in</strong> 1959. S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong>n, M<strong>in</strong>isters havemet every three years and scholarships have been aregular agenda item. We believe that this makes usprobably <strong>the</strong> only scholarship scheme <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> worldwith such an <strong>in</strong>fluential review mechanism.The most recent of <strong>the</strong>se meet<strong>in</strong>gs was <strong>in</strong> SouthAfrica at <strong>the</strong> end of last year. The results are reportedon pages 6-7. Both comments and <strong>the</strong> survey ofactivity over <strong>the</strong> past three years presented at <strong>the</strong>meet<strong>in</strong>g demonstrated that <strong>the</strong> enthusiasm andcommitment shown almost fifty years ago rema<strong>in</strong>svery much <strong>in</strong>tact.Before <strong>the</strong> ma<strong>in</strong> meet<strong>in</strong>g we, <strong>the</strong> UK part of <strong>the</strong> Plan, held a meet<strong>in</strong>g with our sisternom<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g agencies from n<strong>in</strong>eteen o<strong>the</strong>r countries, rang<strong>in</strong>g from small island states likeMauritius and <strong>the</strong> Falkland Islands to <strong>the</strong> ‘big players’ like Canada and Bangladesh. All of usagreed that a major resource was <strong>the</strong> 25,000 alumni of <strong>the</strong> Plan. We shared ideas on howto contact alumni, how to engage <strong>the</strong>m, and how to promote <strong>the</strong>m as a <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Resource. We also agreed to work toge<strong>the</strong>r to <strong>in</strong>volve alumni even more <strong>in</strong> our activitiesand future plann<strong>in</strong>g. Your ideas on how we might achieve this – both <strong>in</strong> anniversary yearand more generally – would be welcome.Alumni are important to us both as long-stand<strong>in</strong>g friends and as <strong>the</strong> ultimate evidence thatour <strong>in</strong>vestment has made an impact. In May, we will be hold<strong>in</strong>g a major sem<strong>in</strong>ar to discusshow <strong>the</strong> achievements of <strong>the</strong> CSFP – and o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>in</strong>ternational scholarship schemes – can beevaluated. Outcomes of this will appear <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> next issue, but those with strong ideas on<strong>the</strong> topic, or who can present <strong>the</strong>mselves as good examples of how scholarships have areal impact, are encouraged to get <strong>in</strong> touch with us – our contact details can be found onpage 12.In <strong>the</strong> meantime, I hope that you f<strong>in</strong>d this, <strong>the</strong> third edition of our new-look magaz<strong>in</strong>e,<strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g and won’t hesitate to let us have feedback and ideas for improvement.Professor Trudy HarphamChair of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UK<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News is publishedthree times a year by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom.<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>c/o The Association of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> UniversitiesWoburn House, 20–24 Tavistock Square,London, WC1H 9HF, UKcomments@cscuk.org.ukwww.csfp-onl<strong>in</strong>e.org© <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News is published for <strong>in</strong>formation purposes only and no liability is accepted for its contents by<strong>the</strong> CSC or by any contributor to it. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>formation conta<strong>in</strong>ed<strong>the</strong>re<strong>in</strong> was correct at <strong>the</strong> time of compilation, it should not be regarded as def<strong>in</strong>itive and no responsibility is accepted for<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>clusion or omission of any particular item. The op<strong>in</strong>ions expressed are those of <strong>the</strong> authors and do not necessarilyrepresent <strong>the</strong> views of <strong>the</strong> CSC.2 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News
NEWS ROUND-UPNEW AWARD ADMINISTRATORSWe are delighted to welcome Sarah Fedorcio andSel<strong>in</strong>a Hannaford to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>’s Secretariat as AwardAdm<strong>in</strong>istrators. Sarah and Sel<strong>in</strong>a took up <strong>the</strong>irposts <strong>in</strong> February 2007.Sarah FedorcioSel<strong>in</strong>a HannafordNEW SELECTIONS FOR 2007A total of 339 scholarships are be<strong>in</strong>g awarded for2007 entry at UK universities. These can be brokendown <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g categories of award:209 General <strong>Scholarship</strong>s for students to pursueMaster’s and PhD degrees.60 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Fellowships. These support <strong>the</strong>cost of up to six months’ work <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong>K<strong>in</strong>gdom for university staff <strong>in</strong> certa<strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g<strong>Commonwealth</strong> countries.39 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Academic Staff <strong>Scholarship</strong>s.Candidates for this award are drawn from HigherEducation <strong>in</strong>stitutions with<strong>in</strong> certa<strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>gcountries.31 Split-site Doctorate <strong>Scholarship</strong>s. Available tothose study<strong>in</strong>g for a PhD <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g<strong>Commonwealth</strong> countries, <strong>the</strong>se scholarshipssupport attendance for one year at a UK university,under <strong>the</strong> jo<strong>in</strong>t supervision of a home country and aUK supervisor.EVALUATION SEMINAR AT CUMBERLANDLODGEFrom 4th-6th May 2007 at Cumberland Lodge <strong>in</strong>W<strong>in</strong>dsor, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> will be hold<strong>in</strong>g anevent entitled ‘Evaluat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> impact of<strong>in</strong>ternational scholarships’. The event, compris<strong>in</strong>gpresentations and discussion sessions, will featurea variety of speakers <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Commission</strong>ersand representatives from <strong>the</strong> Institute ofDevelopment Studies, <strong>the</strong> World Bank Institute,<strong>the</strong> Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands Organization for InternationalCooperation <strong>in</strong> Higher Education (NUFFIC), <strong>the</strong>New Zealand Vice-Chancellor’s Committee and<strong>the</strong> Department for Foreign Affairs andInternational Trade, CanadaCSC LAUNCHES NEW GENDER NETWORKThe <strong>Commission</strong> is pleased to announce <strong>the</strong> launchof <strong>the</strong> latest Professional Network – <strong>the</strong> Gendernetwork. The aim of this network is to facilitatediscussion amongst those connected with <strong>the</strong> CSCwho are affected by issues of gender, particularly ourfemale academic award holders, to enable <strong>the</strong>m toshare ideas and experiences and enhance careerprogression. The Gender newsletter covers currentnews and reports, forthcom<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>ternational eventsand conferences, as well as publications andeducation. The network was launched at <strong>the</strong> ‘Genderand Career Development’ event at CumberlandLodge at <strong>the</strong> end of March 2007 (see page 10).To jo<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> network, visit http://www.csfponl<strong>in</strong>e.org/alumniFORTHCOMING ALUMNI EVENT IN KENYAProfessor Tim Unw<strong>in</strong>, one of our <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>ers, will be visit<strong>in</strong>g Kenya<strong>in</strong> May 2007. He is plann<strong>in</strong>g to hold an event forKenyan alumni and Distance Learn<strong>in</strong>g Scholarson 28th May at <strong>the</strong> Safari Park Hotel <strong>in</strong> Nairobi.As well as former scholars, we are hop<strong>in</strong>g to hostrepresentatives from <strong>the</strong> British High <strong>Commission</strong>,<strong>the</strong> Department for International Development,<strong>the</strong> British Council and key Kenyan figures.Fur<strong>the</strong>r details will be made available shortly toKenyan alumni and scholars.OBSERVANCE FOR COMMONWEALTH DAY,12TH MARCH 2007On a bright spr<strong>in</strong>g afternoon, Westm<strong>in</strong>ster Abbeyhosted <strong>the</strong> thirtieth annual <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Dayobservance. In <strong>the</strong> presence of Her Majesty TheQueen, Head of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>, and His RoyalHighness The Duke of Ed<strong>in</strong>burgh, dignitaries from allcorners of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> were treated to acolourful celebration of <strong>the</strong> values and pr<strong>in</strong>ciples laidout <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> six affirmations central to <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> community.This year’s <strong>the</strong>me of ‘Respect<strong>in</strong>g difference,promot<strong>in</strong>g understand<strong>in</strong>g’ aimed to cross religiousboundaries by br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>and foster<strong>in</strong>g its dist<strong>in</strong>ctive character. Keynotespeakers <strong>in</strong>cluded Anne Gallagher, a nurse who haswitnessed <strong>the</strong> Nor<strong>the</strong>rn Ireland Troubles at firsthand,and Indian actress Shilpa Shetty. The SouthAfrican tenor Siphiwo Ntshebe filled <strong>the</strong> Abbey witha medley of traditional African songs and all enjoyeda collaborative performance of ‘A New Life’ byEmbaire International and <strong>the</strong> Asian Dance Group.Several <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars and Secretariat staffattended <strong>the</strong> service.MEETING TO DISCUSS SCHOLARSHIP IMPACTThe Royal <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Society (RCS), <strong>in</strong>partnership with <strong>the</strong> CSC, is hold<strong>in</strong>g an even<strong>in</strong>gdiscussion meet<strong>in</strong>g consider<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> impact and<strong>the</strong> future of scholarships. The meet<strong>in</strong>g, onTuesday 3rd July at 6.30 pm, will have a panelof dist<strong>in</strong>guished speakers from various fields,reflect<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> work of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> ando<strong>the</strong>r scholarship bodies. Attendance is freeand open to all, and details of <strong>the</strong> event willbe publicised on <strong>the</strong> RCS website:http://www.rcs<strong>in</strong>t.org/eventsCANADA EXTENDS SUPPORTCanada has confirmed cont<strong>in</strong>u<strong>in</strong>g support for <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> and Fellowship Plan(CSFP) until at least 2011. The announcement, <strong>in</strong>January, came follow<strong>in</strong>g a period of review ofseveral scholarship programmes by <strong>the</strong> TreasuryBoard. One of <strong>the</strong> most immediate implications of<strong>the</strong> new support was <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>troduction, on anexperimental basis, of a new strand of postdoctoralFellowships for UK citizens to work at Canadianuniversities. In ano<strong>the</strong>r new <strong>in</strong>itiative, Canada hasannounced support for a new history of <strong>the</strong> CSFP, tobe published <strong>in</strong> conjunction with <strong>the</strong> fiftiethanniversary <strong>in</strong> 2009.COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARS XI V RHODESSCHOLARS XI CRICKET MATCHThe 5th Annual <strong>Commonwealth</strong> XI v Rhodes XIcricket match will be held <strong>in</strong> late June/early Julyat <strong>the</strong> Oxford University Graduate Club cricketground, and we are currently look<strong>in</strong>g for playersfor this year's squad. We want as manyenthusiastic people as possible, so please get <strong>in</strong>touch even if you have limited experience or area bit rusty! If you are <strong>in</strong>terested, please email <strong>the</strong>capta<strong>in</strong>, Tanzil Rahman, attanzil.rahman@hertford.ox.ac.uk. Players andspectators are welcome to br<strong>in</strong>g partners, familiesand friends, to enjoy a spot of qu<strong>in</strong>tessentiallyEnglish summer fun.We are also keen to start up a women’s cricketteam. If you would be <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong> play<strong>in</strong>g,please contact Sarah Humphreys atsarah.humphreys@cscuk.org.uk forfur<strong>the</strong>r details.April 2007 3
SCHOLARS’ NEWSWELCOME DAY 2006Over 250 new scholars and fellows attended <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> (CSC)Welcome Programme at Westm<strong>in</strong>ster Central Hallon 13th November 2006. Laurence Haddad,Director of <strong>the</strong> Institute of Development Studies,University of Sussex, opened <strong>the</strong> morn<strong>in</strong>g sessionwith a speech on <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me of capacity build<strong>in</strong>g.Afternoon sessions were on a variety of <strong>the</strong>mes,<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g bra<strong>in</strong> dra<strong>in</strong>, corruption, and science andtechnology.SEASONAL SOCIAL EVENTAround 30 London-based <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholarsand Fellows jo<strong>in</strong>ed members of <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>’sSecretariat at Woburn House on 13th December2006 for an <strong>in</strong>formal seasonal social ga<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>g. Theevent was a chance for CSC Awards Adm<strong>in</strong>istratorsand award holders to celebrate <strong>the</strong> end of term –and <strong>the</strong> festive season – toge<strong>the</strong>r. Scholars andfellows even had <strong>the</strong> opportunity to experienceBritish Christmas traditions such as m<strong>in</strong>ce pies,mulled w<strong>in</strong>e and <strong>the</strong> pull<strong>in</strong>g of Christmas crackers!that o<strong>the</strong>r academics should consider this option,and ‘embrace this medium’s opportunities forstudent-driven education’.Michael Griff<strong>in</strong>, 2006 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholarfrom Canada<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars <strong>in</strong> one of <strong>the</strong> afternoonbreakout sessionsThe even<strong>in</strong>g reception, held at <strong>the</strong> Foreign and<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Office, was attended byrepresentatives from a wide range of<strong>Commonwealth</strong> organisations, High <strong>Commission</strong>s,governments and universities. Lord Triesman ofTottenham, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of Statefor Foreign and <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Affairs, and Dr KimHowells, M<strong>in</strong>ister of State at <strong>the</strong> Foreign and<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Office, both addressed <strong>the</strong>ga<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>g.Dr Sujit Dutta, a <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Fellow at <strong>the</strong>University of Nott<strong>in</strong>gham, felt that <strong>the</strong> WelcomeDay ‘was a pleasant experience…which offered usopportunities to meet personally those importantCSC and British Council people. It gave us a readyscope to come <strong>in</strong> contact with <strong>the</strong> scholars andfellows from different member countries of <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong>. To me, it appeared to be a<strong>Commonwealth</strong> family get-toge<strong>the</strong>r’.(l-r) Gladys Young (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar),Professor Trudy Harpham (Chair of <strong>the</strong> CSC),Ransford Smith (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> DeputySecretary-General), and Shaun DeSouza(<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar)Ly Loong, 2006 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar fromMalaysia, enjoys a m<strong>in</strong>ce pie with <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Awards Adm<strong>in</strong>istrator, Sab<strong>in</strong>a EbbolsANCIENT SPACES ONLINEIn addition to his doctoral studies, Michael Griff<strong>in</strong>(<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar, DPhil <strong>in</strong> Classics,University of Oxford) has created a website whichaims to br<strong>in</strong>g his field of study to <strong>the</strong> attention of<strong>the</strong> public. www.ancientspaces.com ‘aims tocreate an <strong>in</strong>teractive, accessible 3D simulation ofancient society and culture on <strong>the</strong> Internet,ratified by academia and open to <strong>the</strong> public.’Although Ancient Spaces is still <strong>in</strong> its early stages,<strong>the</strong> contributors aim to develop a softwarepackage which will allow <strong>in</strong>teractive engagementwith <strong>the</strong> Greek and Roman worlds andsimultaneous <strong>in</strong>teraction with o<strong>the</strong>r players, foreducational applications. He feels that globalmedia such as <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternet and <strong>in</strong>teractiveenterta<strong>in</strong>ment ‘offer an <strong>in</strong>strument for tackl<strong>in</strong>gglobal challenges’ and are ‘an avenue forreach<strong>in</strong>g today’s young people’. Michael hopes tocomb<strong>in</strong>e his love of Classics with <strong>the</strong> use ofdigital media upon his return to Canada and feelsACADEMIC FELLOW TAKES UP ADVISORYPOSITIONProfessor Mangala De Zoysa (<strong>Commonwealth</strong>Fellow, University of Bangor) has been appo<strong>in</strong>tedas an Advisor to <strong>the</strong> Water Retention by Land Use(WaReLa) project, follow<strong>in</strong>g an <strong>in</strong>vitation to attenda workshop on ‘Results and exchange ofexperiences of <strong>the</strong> WaReLa Project’, held at <strong>the</strong>University of Trier, Germany, <strong>in</strong> November 2006.The WaReLa Project is a European Community<strong>in</strong>itiative, which supports transnational cooperationamong <strong>the</strong> member states of Germany,Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, Austria, and <strong>the</strong>UK. Professor De Zoysa, a Senior Lecturer at <strong>the</strong>University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, comments that ‘<strong>the</strong>WaReLa project is presently of <strong>the</strong> view that <strong>the</strong>implementation of <strong>the</strong> susta<strong>in</strong>able management ofland, forest and water resources by <strong>the</strong> EuropeanCommunity should <strong>in</strong>clude <strong>in</strong>itiatives with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> EUas well as EU-sponsored activities <strong>in</strong> Third Worldcountries through a mutually supportive approachfor <strong>the</strong> sake of meet<strong>in</strong>g new environmental needsand problems across <strong>the</strong> globe’.COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARS RECEIVERECOGNITIONM Asim Rehman Shaikh (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar,PhD <strong>in</strong> Power Electronics, Imperial College London)won <strong>the</strong> Best Research Poster award at <strong>the</strong> launchof <strong>the</strong> Energy Futures Lab at Imperial College.Many departments participated <strong>in</strong> this competitionand <strong>the</strong> posters highlighted <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>stitution’sYou can send your feedback, news and viewsfor <strong>in</strong>clusion <strong>in</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>sNews by email: comments@cscuk.org.uk4 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News
IN YOUR OWN WORDSresearch <strong>in</strong> a range of energy-related topics. Thetitle of Asim’s poster was ‘Interface Technologies forDistributed Generation’, which presented <strong>the</strong> futureof electrical power networks; <strong>the</strong> emerg<strong>in</strong>g role ofpower electronics <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>terfac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> renewableenergy technologies with ma<strong>in</strong> grids wasunderl<strong>in</strong>ed. Asim’sresearch is <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>application of smartpower electronicdevices to improve <strong>the</strong>quality and reliability<strong>in</strong> electric powernetworks; thistechnology will helpfulfil <strong>the</strong> grow<strong>in</strong>g needfor electric energyespecially <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>develop<strong>in</strong>g world.<strong>Commonwealth</strong>Scholar HukumAsim Rehman Shaikh, Chandra (PhD <strong>in</strong>2004 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Social Statistics,Scholar from Pakistan University ofSouthampton) wasawarded <strong>the</strong>prestigious StudentPaper Competition Award at <strong>the</strong> 2006 Jo<strong>in</strong>tStatistical Meet<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> Seattle, USA <strong>in</strong> August 2006.The Jo<strong>in</strong>t Statistical Meet<strong>in</strong>gs are sponsored by <strong>the</strong>lead<strong>in</strong>g statistical societies of <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> States andCanada and are considered <strong>the</strong> pre-em<strong>in</strong>ent NorthAmerican statistical meet<strong>in</strong>gs of <strong>the</strong> year. Hukumwas awarded <strong>the</strong> prize for his research work on‘Small Area Estimation for Bus<strong>in</strong>ess Surveys’. Hisresearch is focused on <strong>the</strong> development of smallarea estimation techniques <strong>in</strong> survey sampl<strong>in</strong>g.ASSESSING THE STATE OF THE WORLDZ<strong>in</strong>ta Zommers, (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar,DPhil <strong>in</strong> Virology of Wildlife, University ofOxford) has been work<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong>Nations Global Environment Outlook (GEO-4)Report. Here shedescribes <strong>the</strong>challenges andrewards of this<strong>in</strong>valuableexperience.The ‘environment’ is where welive; and development is whatwe all do <strong>in</strong> attempt<strong>in</strong>g toimprove our lot with<strong>in</strong> thatabode. The two are <strong>in</strong>separable.2007 is animportant year for<strong>the</strong> environment.It is a year forreflection. It marks<strong>the</strong> 20thanniversary of <strong>the</strong>release of Our Common Future, also known as<strong>the</strong> Brundtland Report, by <strong>the</strong> World<strong>Commission</strong> on Environment and Development.This report is well known for popularis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>term ‘susta<strong>in</strong>able development’. The reportchallenges policymakers to acknowledge <strong>the</strong>needs of future generations, and to considerenvironmental, economic, and social factorswhen solv<strong>in</strong>g global problems.Gro Harlem Brundtland,Our Common Future, 1987Aptly, this year will see <strong>the</strong> release of a bevy ofenvironmental reports. In September, <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong>Nations Environment Programme will release amajor assessment of <strong>the</strong> world’s environment:<strong>the</strong> Global Environment Outlook. This reportreviews <strong>the</strong> state of <strong>the</strong> world’s atmosphere,water, land and biodiversity. It will also be oneof <strong>the</strong> first assessments to make predictions on<strong>the</strong> state of <strong>the</strong> environment and humandevelopment <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> next hundred years. It isclear that while commitments to susta<strong>in</strong>abledevelopment have been made, to date realprogress has been m<strong>in</strong>imal. From climate tobiodiversity, <strong>the</strong> situation is bleak. Human be<strong>in</strong>gsstand at a crossroads. Barely <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> twenty-firstcentury, our activities are on a collision coursewith <strong>the</strong> environment’s ability to susta<strong>in</strong> us.A government can object to statements thatdepict its country negatively. Our chapter<strong>in</strong>cluded discussion of an illegal wildlife trade.The government <strong>in</strong> question responded thatreferences to <strong>the</strong> trade should be removed. Itstated that <strong>the</strong> trade was‘banned’ and <strong>the</strong>reforedid not occur.Despite <strong>the</strong>se challenges,I am still a firm believer<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> Nations, <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> necessity of globalenvironmental reportsand <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> ability of <strong>the</strong>UN to br<strong>in</strong>g aboutchange. The <strong>United</strong>Nations is also awonderful mechanism togenerate dialogue between people from around<strong>the</strong> world. I remember hear<strong>in</strong>g a women fromKuwait describe water shortages before anaudience <strong>in</strong> Nairobi, Kenya. She was followed bya delegate from Uruguay who described logg<strong>in</strong>gpractices <strong>in</strong> South America. In an era whendebate about global challenges is oftenpolarised, or non-existent, such discussions are<strong>in</strong>valuable.My generation grew up with countless satelliteimages of our planet. Embedded <strong>in</strong> our psycheis a picture of a s<strong>in</strong>gle bright blue sphere, life <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> dead expanse of space. Dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> pasttwenty years, we have been encouraged to lookat Earth. Now we must learn to share <strong>the</strong> fruitsof life among all <strong>the</strong> members of our collectivecommunity, and with future generations. Oneth<strong>in</strong>g is clear: solutions to global environmentalproblems are difficult to f<strong>in</strong>d. I hope that o<strong>the</strong>r<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars will contribute to <strong>the</strong>debate and shape a susta<strong>in</strong>able future. 2008 is<strong>the</strong> International Year of Planet Earth. Let’s makeit a year of change!Hukum Chandra, 2004<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar from IndiaDur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> past two years, I have had <strong>the</strong>pleasure of work<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> Global EnvironmentOutlook. By chance, a former <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Scholar from India is one of my supervisors.Hundreds of scientists have participated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>writ<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> report. As one of <strong>the</strong> youngestauthors, my professionalism, research abilitiesand writ<strong>in</strong>g skills have all been tested. I havelearned a great deal about <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> Nations,and about <strong>the</strong> challenges of consensus. Beforepublication, <strong>the</strong> report must pass a series ofexpert reviews and must meet governmentapprovals. While this process streng<strong>the</strong>ns <strong>the</strong>report, authors tread a delicate tightrope.Z<strong>in</strong>ta Zommers, 2005 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholarfrom Canada, at a GEO-4 meet<strong>in</strong>gApril 2007 5
COMMONWEALTH EDUCATIONMINISTERS LOOK TO THE FUTUREThe <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> and Fellowship Plan will celebrate its fiftieth anniversary <strong>in</strong> two years’time – but how should <strong>the</strong> occasion be marked? John Kirkland reports on some positive proposalsfrom <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>isters.<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s are gear<strong>in</strong>g up to celebrate <strong>the</strong>ir fiftiethbirthday <strong>in</strong> style – and Education M<strong>in</strong>isters are determ<strong>in</strong>ed to play <strong>the</strong>irpart. These were <strong>the</strong> clear messages from <strong>the</strong> 16th Conference of<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>isters (CCEM), held <strong>in</strong> Cape Townfrom December 11th-14th 2006.For those who are not aware of its history, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) was formally established at <strong>the</strong> first EducationM<strong>in</strong>isters’ Conference, held <strong>in</strong> Oxford <strong>in</strong> 1959, although <strong>the</strong> idea had beenmooted at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Trade M<strong>in</strong>isters’ Conference, held <strong>the</strong> previousyear <strong>in</strong> Montreal, reflect<strong>in</strong>g a strong Canadian <strong>in</strong>fluence. The <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> (CSC), which manages <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom’scontribution to <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ternational Plan, was also established <strong>in</strong> 1959. The firstcohort of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars took up <strong>the</strong>ir awards <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g year.Agency and CSC representatives at <strong>the</strong> meet<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Stellenbosch,December 2006Progress s<strong>in</strong>ce that time has been spectacular. Almost 25,000 <strong>in</strong>dividuals todate have held <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s or Fellowships. Around 15,000of <strong>the</strong>se have held <strong>the</strong>ir awards <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom, which undertook tobe <strong>the</strong> largest contributor at <strong>the</strong> 1959 meet<strong>in</strong>g, and has ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>ed itscommitment ever s<strong>in</strong>ce. In total, however, <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Awards havebeen held <strong>in</strong> over twenty countries, with fund<strong>in</strong>g from <strong>the</strong> hosts <strong>in</strong> each case.As <strong>the</strong> fiftieth anniversary approaches, <strong>the</strong> level of <strong>the</strong>se commitments showsno sign of decl<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g. A report on CSFP activity over <strong>the</strong> past three years,presented to M<strong>in</strong>isters, showed that <strong>the</strong> number of new awards had averaged677 dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> period, represent<strong>in</strong>g a 47% <strong>in</strong>crease on <strong>the</strong> average figure of460 for <strong>the</strong> four years reported at <strong>the</strong> previous conference, <strong>in</strong> Ed<strong>in</strong>burgh <strong>in</strong>2003. The number of students on award showed a similar rise. The 1,560reported for <strong>the</strong> past year was also 47% higher than that reported atEd<strong>in</strong>burgh, and represented <strong>the</strong> eighth highest <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Plan’s history.Once aga<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom was <strong>the</strong> largest s<strong>in</strong>gle contributor, hav<strong>in</strong>gdiversified its provision through substantial <strong>in</strong>creases <strong>in</strong> distance learn<strong>in</strong>g, and<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>troduction of professional fellowships. Contributions to <strong>the</strong> expansion of<strong>the</strong> Plan came from throughout <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>, however. New Zealandand India registered particularly significant <strong>in</strong>creases. Ghana, Malta, Botswanaand Mauritius were amongst those show<strong>in</strong>g as host countries for <strong>the</strong> first time<strong>in</strong> many years, whilst <strong>the</strong> total number of hosts dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> period reachedfourteen – exactly <strong>in</strong> l<strong>in</strong>e with <strong>the</strong> ambitious target set <strong>in</strong> Ed<strong>in</strong>burgh.The positive <strong>in</strong>dications were not conf<strong>in</strong>ed to figures, with several countriesactively confirm<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> value of <strong>the</strong> scholarships <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> survey. Severalcommented on <strong>the</strong> capacity of former award holders to take up <strong>in</strong>fluentialroles on <strong>the</strong>ir return home. Malawi, for example, spoke of alumni tak<strong>in</strong>g up keypositions <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> sectors where <strong>the</strong>y work, and Ghana observed that formeraward holders have ‘contributed immensely to <strong>the</strong> socio-economic needs of<strong>the</strong> country’, not<strong>in</strong>g that most were employed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> civil and public service.O<strong>the</strong>rs remarked that <strong>the</strong> awards were amongst <strong>the</strong> most prestigious availableto <strong>the</strong>ir citizens.6 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News
It was stressed that <strong>the</strong>se activities would not replace such agencies, but shouldprovide additional support. An offer from <strong>the</strong> Association of <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Universities to contribute to <strong>the</strong> staff<strong>in</strong>g of such a facility was also welcomed.Perhaps <strong>the</strong> most significant proposal <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> long term was that <strong>the</strong> fiftiethanniversary be marked by <strong>the</strong> creation of a new endowment, to support <strong>the</strong>establishment of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s hosted by develop<strong>in</strong>g countries.This would be very much a ‘first’ for <strong>the</strong> CSFP – <strong>the</strong> first time it has sought toraise funds directly, and <strong>the</strong> first time that any resources have been heldcentrally.© An<strong>the</strong>a DavisonSouth African schoolchildren s<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> nationalan<strong>the</strong>m at <strong>the</strong> open<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> ConferenceAga<strong>in</strong>st this background, <strong>the</strong> challenge fac<strong>in</strong>g M<strong>in</strong>isters was how to build on<strong>the</strong>se achievements – to ensure not only that more <strong>in</strong>dividuals benefit from <strong>the</strong>Plan, but that it has maximum impact for <strong>the</strong>ir countries, and <strong>the</strong> wider<strong>Commonwealth</strong>. After a positive debate, a number of proposals were agreedto achieve this.First, member governments agreed to strive to <strong>in</strong>crease fur<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> number ofawards available, sett<strong>in</strong>g a target of 2009 students be<strong>in</strong>g on award by <strong>the</strong> 2009anniversary year. Implementation of this proposal, as with all CSFP awards, willrest with <strong>in</strong>dividual host countries, but many made positive <strong>in</strong>dications of<strong>in</strong>tent, with South Africa announc<strong>in</strong>g that it will start host<strong>in</strong>g awards. S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong>conference too, <strong>the</strong>re has been good news as Canada, whose government hadbeen consider<strong>in</strong>g its future participation <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Plan as part of a general reviewof scholarship programs, has confirmed its budget for <strong>the</strong> next five years.Rais<strong>in</strong>g such a fund would be a challenge, and it was recognised that thisshould be a ‘one-off’ activity to mark <strong>the</strong> anniversary, ra<strong>the</strong>r than an ongo<strong>in</strong>gone. The advantages, however, could be significant. <strong>Scholarship</strong>s <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>gcountries are relatively cheap, and play an important role <strong>in</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>dist<strong>in</strong>ctive <strong>in</strong>ternational character of <strong>the</strong> Plan. They will also be <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>glypopular as those countries develop <strong>the</strong>ir range of courses, particularly onsubjects that reflect local specialisations. The ability of <strong>the</strong> Plan to ‘co-fund’awards with national hosts would be a significant encouragement.O<strong>the</strong>r proposals to be approved <strong>in</strong>clude a major conference to mark <strong>the</strong>anniversary, stronger collaboration over alumni activity and <strong>the</strong> development of<strong>Commonwealth</strong>-wide professional networks for <strong>the</strong> CSFP ‘community’, perhapsbuild<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong> networks already established by <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom.These latter proposals rem<strong>in</strong>d us that, although stronger central support willhelp <strong>the</strong> Plan make maximum impact, much can also be achieved throughgreater cooperation between <strong>the</strong> national agencies <strong>the</strong>mselves. This potentialwas fur<strong>the</strong>r seen when, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> days before <strong>the</strong> M<strong>in</strong>isters’ conference,representatives from fifteen such countries met <strong>in</strong> nearby Stellenbosch tocompare <strong>the</strong>ir own experiences. As well as endors<strong>in</strong>g proposals for M<strong>in</strong>isters,those attend<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> meet<strong>in</strong>g agreed that more could be done to clarifyadm<strong>in</strong>istrative procedures, produce common materials and even exchange staff.The overall impression of <strong>the</strong> CSFP to emerge from <strong>the</strong> meet<strong>in</strong>gs was that of aconfident, prestigious and established scheme, well known and regarded by thoseat <strong>the</strong> highest levels of government. The question now is how far <strong>the</strong>se strengthscan be built on to make our anniversary year one to remember. By <strong>the</strong>ir decisions<strong>in</strong> Cape Town, M<strong>in</strong>isters have shown <strong>the</strong>ir will<strong>in</strong>gness to lead <strong>the</strong> way.The conference also recognised that <strong>the</strong> governance of <strong>the</strong> CSFP could beimproved. S<strong>in</strong>ce its establishment, <strong>the</strong> Plan has operated on a bilateral basis,with relationships exist<strong>in</strong>g primarily between <strong>in</strong>dividual home and hostcountries, and with relatively little central coord<strong>in</strong>ation. In some ways, this hasbeen an outstand<strong>in</strong>g success. It has enabled scholarships to develop with am<strong>in</strong>imum of adm<strong>in</strong>istrative cost, and ensured that relationships have rema<strong>in</strong>edclose to local needs. On <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r hand, <strong>the</strong> lack of a central adm<strong>in</strong>istration hasperhaps led <strong>the</strong> scheme to lack coord<strong>in</strong>ation, and meant that no-one has beenon hand to encourage new hosts to jo<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> scheme, and promote <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s ‘brand’ on a global scale. The <strong>in</strong>ternational CSFPwebsite, which was established by <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom with cooperation fromo<strong>the</strong>r agencies four years ago but often lacks updates from some countries,and <strong>the</strong> future development of tracer studies were cited as o<strong>the</strong>r examples ofactivities that could be progressed through a central facility.M<strong>in</strong>isters decided to recognise this need by request<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Secretariat to facilitate <strong>the</strong> establishment of a small facility to give support tonational agencies, and to assist <strong>the</strong>m with <strong>the</strong> general promotion of <strong>the</strong> Plan.<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>isters <strong>in</strong> Cape TownApril 2007 7
ALUMNI IN ACTIONAlumni NewsALUMNUS HOSTS INTERNATIONAL LIBRARYAND INFORMATION SCIENCE CONFERENCEDr Jagtar S<strong>in</strong>gh (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Fellow,Loughborough University, 1992-1993) organised<strong>the</strong> 23rd International Conference of <strong>the</strong> IndianAssociation of Teachers of Library and InformationScience (IATLIS) from 23rd-25th November 2006.Seventy-five delegates from India, Pakistan, <strong>the</strong> UKand <strong>the</strong> USA participated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> conference, and asem<strong>in</strong>ar on <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me ‘Build<strong>in</strong>g curriculum with adifference: a Vision of LIS Education <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> 21stCentury’ was also held. Dr S<strong>in</strong>gh is a Professor <strong>in</strong>Library and Information Science at PunjabiUniversity, Patiala, India, and has been elected as aStand<strong>in</strong>g Committee Member of <strong>the</strong> InternationalFederation of Library Associations and Institutions(IFLA) for <strong>the</strong> period 2006-2008.FORMER FELLOW ORGANISES MEDICALHISTORY CONFERENCEDr Ach<strong>in</strong>tya Kumar Dutta(<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Fellow,SOAS, 2002-2003) iscurrently a Reader <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>Department of History at<strong>the</strong> University of Burdwan,West Bengal, India andwas <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> organis<strong>in</strong>gan <strong>in</strong>ternationalAch<strong>in</strong>tya Kumar Duttaconference for hisdepartment. Theconference, on ‘Epidemics<strong>in</strong> South Asian History: A Review of Medical, Politicaland Social Responses ’took place from 7th-9thNovember 2006, <strong>in</strong> collaboration with <strong>the</strong> WellcomeTrust and <strong>the</strong> Wellcome Trust Centre for <strong>the</strong> Historyof Medic<strong>in</strong>e at University College London, and waswell-received by students and faculty members.In BriefAWARDS AND CAREER ANNOUNCEMENTSMr H S Coperahewa (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> AcademicStaff <strong>Scholarship</strong>, MA <strong>in</strong> Language Studies,Lancaster University, 2003-2004) was promoted to<strong>the</strong> grade of Senior Lecturer at <strong>the</strong> Department ofS<strong>in</strong>hala, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka <strong>in</strong> 2005.At <strong>the</strong> same time, he applied to <strong>the</strong> University ofCambridge for his doctoral studies and was offereda Cambridge <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Trust scholarship andan Overseas Research Students award. MrCoperahewa is currently study<strong>in</strong>g at Cambridge forhis PhD <strong>in</strong> South Asian Studies.Dr Elizabeth Egbochuku (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Fellow,Birkbeck College, University of London, 2002-2003)has been elected as a congregation representativeto <strong>the</strong> University of Ben<strong>in</strong> Senate, for an <strong>in</strong>itialperiod of two academic sessions from October2006. She was also appo<strong>in</strong>ted, by <strong>the</strong> Vice-Chancellor of <strong>the</strong> University, as Assistant Dean,School of Postgraduate Studies from July 2006.Dr Kodira A Kushalapa (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar,MSc <strong>in</strong> Forestry, University of Ed<strong>in</strong>burgh, 1970-72) hasretired from his post as Regional Chief Conservator ofForests, Government of India, and is now Chairman of<strong>the</strong> Kodagu Model Forest Trust, established for <strong>the</strong>susta<strong>in</strong>able management of forests.Dr Peter D Maynard (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar,LLM, University of Cambridge, 1976-1979) has beenappo<strong>in</strong>ted Act<strong>in</strong>g Judge of <strong>the</strong> Supreme Court ofThe Bahamas.Professor Andrew T S Wee (<strong>Commonwealth</strong>Fellow, University of Oxford, 1996-1997) wasappo<strong>in</strong>ted Head of Department of Physics, NationalUniversity of S<strong>in</strong>gapore, from July 2006 for 3 years.Alumni EventsALUMNI AND DISTANCE LEARNING EVENTAT THE ZAMBIAN HIGH COMMISSIONOn 28th March 2007, Professor Ann Floyd(<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>er) andAlistair Harrison (British High <strong>Commission</strong>er toZambia) co-hosted a reception for Zambian alumniand Distance Learn<strong>in</strong>g Scholars study<strong>in</strong>g HealthPromotion and Environmental Health at Cha<strong>in</strong>amaCollege of Health Sciences, Zambia and LeedsMetropolitan University, UK. Representatives from<strong>the</strong> Department for International Development, <strong>the</strong>British Council and Zambian universities alsoattended.Some alumni had travelled quite a distance toattend, keen to chat about <strong>the</strong>ir work. Onealumnus, Professor Richard Siaciwena, has made asignificant impact as Director of <strong>the</strong> Directorate ofDistance Education at <strong>the</strong> University of Zambia.The High <strong>Commission</strong>er spoke about <strong>the</strong>importance of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> and his personalexperience of tak<strong>in</strong>g a distance learn<strong>in</strong>g course.Professor Floyd talked about <strong>the</strong> recentdiversification of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>’s schemes andhow distance learn<strong>in</strong>g makes an immediatedifference, as people study while <strong>in</strong> employment.Professor Floyd noted <strong>the</strong> impact this had upon <strong>the</strong>Cha<strong>in</strong>ama Scholars, who were buzz<strong>in</strong>g with ideas!ALUMNUS ARRANGES RETREAT FORCOLLEAGUESDr Bavita Asthir (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Fellow, ScottishAgricultural College, 1999-2000), currently work<strong>in</strong>gas a Biochemist at <strong>the</strong> Department of Biochemistryand Chemistry, Punjab Agricultural University,Ludhiana, India, is actively engaged <strong>in</strong> meditationprogrammes conducted by <strong>the</strong> Vishvas Foundation.In March 2006, Dr Asthir organised a meditationretreat, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g a free camp and lectures, at heruniversity for faculty, staff and o<strong>the</strong>rs.Through <strong>the</strong> Foundation, she has also been<strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> provid<strong>in</strong>g free education to childrenaged 5 to 15 and support<strong>in</strong>g orphanages, girls’colleges, and a host of senior secondary schools.Dr N T Yaduraju (<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholar, PhD <strong>in</strong>Agricultural Science, University of Read<strong>in</strong>g, 1981-1984)is currently work<strong>in</strong>g as a National Coord<strong>in</strong>ator for <strong>the</strong>World Bank-funded National Agriculture InnovationProject (NAIP). Previously, Dr Yaduraju worked asDirector, National Research Centre for Weed Science(NRCWS) at Jabalpur, India, from 2000-2005.KEEP IN TOUCH!Please keep us <strong>in</strong>formed ofyour news, such as significantresearch, new seniorappo<strong>in</strong>tment, major publicationor national honour or award.We also welcome feedback onany aspect of this publication.You can get <strong>in</strong> touch by email:comments@cscuk.org.ukor you can write to:Ann Floyd and Alistair Harrison (second fromright) with guests at <strong>the</strong> eventSarah Humphreys,Alumni Development Officer<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdomc/o The Association of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> UniversitiesWoburn House, 20-24 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9FH, UKWe appreciate all your feedback and contributions, although it maynot always be possible for us to <strong>in</strong>clude all your news, due to <strong>the</strong>amount of space available on <strong>the</strong>se pages.8 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News
IN YOUR OWN WORDSTwo Kenyan alumni discuss how <strong>the</strong>ir <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s became life-chang<strong>in</strong>g experiences –one through spend<strong>in</strong>g time <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UK, and <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r through distance learn<strong>in</strong>g.THE LONG ROAD TO A PHD: CHOICES,CHANGES OR CHANCESGeoffrey Mbugua Wango (<strong>Commonwealth</strong>Scholar, PhD <strong>in</strong> Counsell<strong>in</strong>g and Policy,University of Birm<strong>in</strong>gham, 2003-2006) describeshow his experience of life and study <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UKset him on an unexpected careerpath <strong>in</strong> his home country of Kenya.I arrived <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UK dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Iraqwar, at a time when <strong>the</strong> media waspreoccupied with issues between <strong>the</strong>British Government and <strong>the</strong> BBC.What could this battle tell me about<strong>the</strong> dangers of political <strong>in</strong>fluence and <strong>the</strong><strong>in</strong>dependence of journalism? I watchedparliamentary sessions and was fasc<strong>in</strong>ated byTony Blair’s convictions, ra<strong>the</strong>r than whe<strong>the</strong>r hewas right or wrong on several issues. I was bothsurprised and fasc<strong>in</strong>ated by <strong>the</strong> demonstrationsheld dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> visit of American PresidentGeorge Bush, to London.I saw that democracy is not one-sided; you canagree to disagree and air your views<strong>in</strong>dependently. This was an <strong>in</strong>spiration, com<strong>in</strong>gfrom a develop<strong>in</strong>g country like Kenya wherepolitical and free speech was only just ga<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>gprom<strong>in</strong>ence.I was overwhelmed by <strong>the</strong> changes thatI experienced <strong>in</strong> thought, learn<strong>in</strong>gand understand<strong>in</strong>g.Geoffrey Mbugua WangoAs all this was go<strong>in</strong>g on, I was busy work<strong>in</strong>g onfirst year PhD assignments. But my focus <strong>in</strong> lifehad slowly changed and for <strong>the</strong> first time, Istarted seriously th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g about jo<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g politics asa way of <strong>in</strong>fluenc<strong>in</strong>g policy. By <strong>the</strong> time I went toKenya for fieldwork, <strong>the</strong> die was cast. I knewwhat I wanted to do <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> near future – to goout and change <strong>the</strong> life of <strong>the</strong> people <strong>in</strong> myhome country. To me, politics does not have tobe about ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’; it can be aboutimprov<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> lives of <strong>the</strong> people.As I completed my PhD, I was overwhelmed by<strong>the</strong> changes that I experienced <strong>in</strong> thought,learn<strong>in</strong>g and understand<strong>in</strong>g. I learnt a lot aboutcounsell<strong>in</strong>g, education andadm<strong>in</strong>istration, policy, research and <strong>the</strong>use of <strong>in</strong>formation technology <strong>in</strong>schools. I <strong>in</strong>teracted with many studentsof different nationalities, learnt a lotabout <strong>the</strong> diplomatic nature of <strong>the</strong>English language, and most of all I hada chance to reflect on my future career.Someone read<strong>in</strong>g this will ask, what is <strong>the</strong> roadto acquir<strong>in</strong>g a PhD? PhD study is not just about<strong>the</strong> immense <strong>in</strong>formation available <strong>in</strong> this age(though this should be a greater part of it); it isabout how knowledge can effectively transformus as people, or enable us to improve <strong>the</strong> livesof o<strong>the</strong>rs. It was a long road to freedom of <strong>the</strong>m<strong>in</strong>d and it was worth <strong>the</strong> journey!OPENING UP NEW PATHSLucy Mburu Waruguru was a <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Distance Learn<strong>in</strong>g Scholar at <strong>the</strong> University ofSunderland, UK (2004-2007). Here, shediscusses <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>spiration for and <strong>the</strong> impact ofher studies.I was born and raised <strong>in</strong> Busia, a small town on<strong>the</strong> border of Kenya with Uganda. Dur<strong>in</strong>g my timeat secondary school, computers were <strong>in</strong>troducedand <strong>in</strong>terested students had to pay additional feesto study <strong>the</strong> basics. I became fasc<strong>in</strong>ated byLucy Mburu Warugurucomputers but s<strong>in</strong>ce my parents could not afford<strong>the</strong> fees I was forced to forego this particular‘luxury’. Instead I directed my <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> music andlater studied for my Bachelor’s degree <strong>in</strong> Music atMaseno University.I am now better placed to aidmy students and my countryas a whole.Lucy Mburu WaruguruUpon graduation I began teach<strong>in</strong>g music at asecondary school, where I also studied computerpackages and began teach<strong>in</strong>g lessons <strong>in</strong>comput<strong>in</strong>g. Despite atta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g first class honours <strong>in</strong>my degree, I was unable to pursue a Master’sdegree <strong>in</strong> Music immediately, s<strong>in</strong>ce I had to workfull-time. I <strong>the</strong>n learned of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong>s offered to students. I applied at onceand was lucky enough to receive a scholarship tostudy for an MSc <strong>in</strong> Computer Based InformationSystems through distance learn<strong>in</strong>g. I was glad tolearn that <strong>the</strong> lessons were offered on Saturdays at<strong>the</strong> Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture andTechnology (JKUAT) s<strong>in</strong>ce I would be able tocont<strong>in</strong>ue with my work dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> week, <strong>the</strong>ntravel on Fridays to attend my classes.Dur<strong>in</strong>g my studies I have observed that <strong>the</strong>sescholarships have helped many bright and needystudents to pursue fur<strong>the</strong>r education and henceimprove <strong>the</strong>ir careers and lives, and those ofo<strong>the</strong>rs. I myself would not have imag<strong>in</strong>ed, threeyears before, that my next graduation would be <strong>in</strong>a MSc <strong>in</strong> Computer Based Information Systems! Ifound <strong>the</strong> study challenges <strong>in</strong>trigu<strong>in</strong>g. The coursehas provided me with a lot of valuable comput<strong>in</strong>gknowledge and skills, and my approach toplann<strong>in</strong>g and teach<strong>in</strong>g has also improvedconsiderably. I now f<strong>in</strong>d myself effectively teach<strong>in</strong>gconcepts that I previously did not th<strong>in</strong>k mystudents would understand.I have never once regretted tak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course, as Ialways knew how valuable it would be to myfuture. I am now aspir<strong>in</strong>g to jo<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> University as aTutorial Fellow and possibly proceed to PhD study,so that I can become a lecturer. I am positive that<strong>the</strong> degree will advance my teach<strong>in</strong>g career and Iam now better placed to aid my students and mycountry as a whole.April 2007 9
PROFESSIONAL NETWORKSAND EVENTSGOVERNANCE ALUMNI NETWORK CONFERENCEJust<strong>in</strong> Foxworthy reports on <strong>the</strong> third annual conference, held at <strong>the</strong>Institute of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Studies (ICwS) <strong>in</strong> London.In association with <strong>the</strong> ICwS and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Secretariat, <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> hosted <strong>the</strong> third annual conferencefor <strong>the</strong> Alumni Network on Governance. Central to this year’s conference,entitled ‘Governance <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>: Respect<strong>in</strong>g Difference, Promot<strong>in</strong>gUnderstand<strong>in</strong>g’, was <strong>the</strong> contrast between <strong>the</strong> unprecedented exchange ofcommerce, culture and ideas b<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g us toge<strong>the</strong>r and <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g levels of<strong>in</strong>equality and poverty with<strong>in</strong> and between nations that can give rise totensions and conflicts.Co<strong>in</strong>cid<strong>in</strong>g with <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Day, <strong>the</strong> conference brought toge<strong>the</strong>r current<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars and established professionals from <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> Secretariat, academia and civil society <strong>in</strong> order to celebrate <strong>the</strong>cultural, social and political uniqueness of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>. The <strong>the</strong>mesand issues discussed <strong>in</strong>cluded human rights, tolerance and understand<strong>in</strong>g,economic development, migration and identity, conflict resolution and postconflictrecovery, and good governance across <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>.The conference opened with a panel discussion on advanc<strong>in</strong>g human rights <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>. Follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> panel, an even<strong>in</strong>g reception marked <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> Secretariat’s release of <strong>the</strong> Model Human Rights Curriculumfor <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Universities and Law Schools. At <strong>the</strong> reception, RababFatima and Jolyon Ford, from <strong>the</strong> Secretariat’s Human Rights Unit, thanked <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> Legal Education Association (CLEA) for its efforts <strong>in</strong> help<strong>in</strong>g tocreate <strong>the</strong> document andcommented on <strong>the</strong>importance ofma<strong>in</strong>stream<strong>in</strong>g humanrights <strong>in</strong> educationthroughout <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong>.The event’s second daycovered a wide range ofissues from a variety ofA session at <strong>the</strong> Governance conferenceperspectives. However, aloose consensus began to emerge around <strong>the</strong> importance of <strong>the</strong> need to buildconnections between people. Complex issues of identity, cultural difference,economic growth and equality are best dealt with through mutualunderstand<strong>in</strong>g and respect among communities. That even<strong>in</strong>g a secondreception and d<strong>in</strong>ner commemorated <strong>the</strong> third anniversary of <strong>the</strong> GovernanceAlumni Network.The f<strong>in</strong>al day of <strong>the</strong> event <strong>in</strong>cluded panels on peace and security and <strong>the</strong> needfor balance between <strong>in</strong>dividual rights with collective action. Delegates discussed<strong>the</strong> need to streng<strong>the</strong>n structures, processes and mechanisms to enable <strong>the</strong>constructive management of differences and promote effective political andsocial engagement. This brought to <strong>the</strong> fore <strong>the</strong> real strengths of <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong>: its ethos of equality and governance by deliberation andconsensus, which are central to promot<strong>in</strong>g understand<strong>in</strong>g among people andadvanc<strong>in</strong>g human rights.GENDER AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVENTSarah Humphreys describes <strong>the</strong> launch of <strong>the</strong> Gender network.Over fifty <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars and Fellows, both current and former,attended <strong>the</strong> ‘Gender and Career Development’ sem<strong>in</strong>ar at CumberlandLodge, W<strong>in</strong>dsor from 23rd-25th March 2007. This event marked <strong>the</strong> launchof <strong>the</strong> newest CSC network – <strong>the</strong> Gender network.Friday even<strong>in</strong>g began with a presentation by Dorothy Garland of <strong>the</strong>Association of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Universities, on <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>gs of <strong>the</strong> report Still AS<strong>in</strong>gle Sex Profession, which considered gender and career development issueswith<strong>in</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> universities. Celia Brackenbridge gave an <strong>in</strong>sight <strong>in</strong>toThrough <strong>the</strong> Glass Ceil<strong>in</strong>g, an organisation which supports women work<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>higher education. This session provoked enthusiastic questions and debate,and set <strong>the</strong> tone for a lively weekend.The programme on Saturday comprised of sessions led by different speakers.Peter Reader, Director of Market<strong>in</strong>g and Communications at <strong>the</strong> University ofBath, guided students through <strong>the</strong> process of communicat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir research to<strong>the</strong> media. Steff Hazlehurst, Deputy Chair of <strong>the</strong> Association of ResearchManagers and Adm<strong>in</strong>istrators (ARMA), gave practical advice on compil<strong>in</strong>gsuccessful fund<strong>in</strong>g applications.Current Scholars Sohela Nazneen, Henrietta Abane and Betty Dlam<strong>in</strong>i, alongwith Fellow Dr Kiran Prasad, spoke about gender issues <strong>in</strong> both <strong>the</strong>ir academicand personal experience. Faisal Notta, Deborah Madsen, Indu Grover, AudreyBenn and Samantha Naidu spoke from an alumni perspective, giv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>sights<strong>in</strong>to gender issues <strong>the</strong>y have encountered <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> workplace and <strong>the</strong>ir strategiesfor deal<strong>in</strong>g with <strong>the</strong>m.On Saturday even<strong>in</strong>g, Angela Glasner, former Pro Vice-Chancellor at <strong>the</strong>University of Portsmouth and ex-Chair of Through <strong>the</strong> Glass Ceil<strong>in</strong>g, jo<strong>in</strong>ed apanel of Scholars and alumni to answer <strong>the</strong> question: ‘What would I do if Iwere M<strong>in</strong>ister for Equal Opportunities?’ After an excellent session, which wasenterta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g but dealt with serious issues, a mock election was held and AngelaGlasner won <strong>the</strong> day with her manifesto to champion equal rights.The weekend f<strong>in</strong>ished with Scholars attend<strong>in</strong>g aservice at <strong>the</strong> Royal Chapel <strong>in</strong> W<strong>in</strong>dsor, where HRHQueen Elizabeth II was also present. The event wasa great success and could easily have cont<strong>in</strong>uedlong past Sunday, due to <strong>the</strong> enthusiasm of allparticipants. We are sure this enthusiasm willcont<strong>in</strong>ue across <strong>the</strong> new Gender network.Participants at <strong>the</strong> Gender and Career Development sem<strong>in</strong>ar10 <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News
COUNTRY PROFILE –New ZealandIn <strong>the</strong> first of a series of articles on how <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) operates throughout <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>,Kiri Manuera, of <strong>the</strong> New Zealand Vice-Chancellors’ Committee, reviewsrecent developments <strong>in</strong> New Zealand.New Zealand has supported <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s s<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong>ir<strong>in</strong>ception <strong>in</strong> 1959. At present, scholarships to <strong>Commonwealth</strong> develop<strong>in</strong>gcountries are funded through <strong>the</strong> New Zealand Agency for InternationalDevelopment (NZAID). Fund<strong>in</strong>g for scholarships to developed<strong>Commonwealth</strong> countries comes from New Zealand’s universities<strong>the</strong>mselves. Adm<strong>in</strong>istration for both schemes is provided by <strong>the</strong> NewZealand Vice-Chancellors’ Committee (NZVCC), which also ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>sregular contact with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>UK and o<strong>the</strong>r national agencies.Eligible develop<strong>in</strong>g countries are determ<strong>in</strong>ed annually by NZAID, <strong>in</strong>accordance with current developmental objectives. These vary accord<strong>in</strong>g togeographical region, but focus on areas such as leadership and governance,economics, environment, education, health, agriculture, human rights andgender, trade and development, and tourism. NZAID provides annualfund<strong>in</strong>g of NZ$1.5 million to <strong>the</strong> scheme, <strong>in</strong> addition to <strong>the</strong> contributionfrom universities to scholarships for Canada and <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom.The total number of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Scholars that have studied <strong>in</strong> NewZealand now numbers over 650, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g 61 students currently hold<strong>in</strong>gawards. The most recent Conference of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>istersheard that New Zealand was one of <strong>the</strong> countries to have <strong>in</strong>creasedsupport <strong>in</strong> recent years. This reflects a doubl<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> fund<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong>scheme, which was approved by m<strong>in</strong>isters <strong>in</strong> 2004.New Zealanders have also benefited from <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>sabroad, and particularly <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom. Amongst <strong>the</strong> many whohave returned to develop successful careers <strong>in</strong> New Zealand are:• The Hon Dr Michael Cullen (PhD <strong>in</strong> History, University of Ed<strong>in</strong>burgh,1968-1971), Deputy Prime M<strong>in</strong>ister of New Zealand; M<strong>in</strong>ister ofF<strong>in</strong>ance; M<strong>in</strong>ister of Tertiary Education• V<strong>in</strong>cent O’Sullivan (BLitt <strong>in</strong> English, University of Oxford, 1960-1962),author• Dr Eru Woodb<strong>in</strong>e Pomare, d.1995 (MD <strong>in</strong> Bileacid Metabolism,University of Bristol, 1971-1975), former Dean of <strong>the</strong> Well<strong>in</strong>gton Schoolof Medic<strong>in</strong>e; campaigner for improved Maori health• Dr James Buwalda, (MPhil <strong>in</strong> Biological Science, Rothamsted Research(Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council), 1980-1983),Chief Executive of Department of Labour; former Chief Executive of<strong>the</strong> M<strong>in</strong>istry of Research, Science and Technology• Professor Jonathan Boston (DPhil <strong>in</strong> Government Studies,University of Oxford, 1980-1983), Professor of Public Policy; DeputyDirector of <strong>the</strong> Institute of Policy Studies, Victoria Universityof Well<strong>in</strong>gton<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s for UK citizens wish<strong>in</strong>g to study <strong>in</strong> NewZealand are normally advertised <strong>in</strong> January, with a clos<strong>in</strong>g date <strong>in</strong> Marchor April, for take-up at <strong>the</strong> start of <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g year. Fur<strong>the</strong>r details canbe obta<strong>in</strong>ed from <strong>the</strong> New Zealand section of <strong>the</strong> CSFP website athttp://www.csfp-onl<strong>in</strong>e.orgCURRENT SCHOLARSJennifer Infanti, from Canada:I am a social anthropologist study<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> various ways children makemean<strong>in</strong>g or sense of <strong>the</strong>ir experiences of family violence <strong>in</strong> PalmerstonNorth, New Zealand. Thereseemed to be manyopportunities to participate <strong>in</strong>research <strong>in</strong> New Zealand wi<strong>the</strong>xcit<strong>in</strong>g practical applicationsfor social change. I also choseNew Zealand because of itsreputation for spectaculargeography and friendlypeople; <strong>in</strong> both respects, Ihave not been disappo<strong>in</strong>ted.One of <strong>the</strong> greatest benefitsof <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong> for me has been<strong>the</strong> opportunity to makefriends with many studentsJennifer Infanti on rightfrom around <strong>the</strong> world.Daan Steenkamp from South Africa:I have been pursu<strong>in</strong>g a Master’s degree <strong>in</strong> Economics at <strong>the</strong> University ofAuckland. Auckland is an <strong>in</strong>credibly multicultural city and study<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> NewZealand has exposed me to a diverse range of views on developmenteconomics and life <strong>in</strong> general. Apart from study<strong>in</strong>g, I have worked as an<strong>in</strong>tern at <strong>the</strong> NZ Reserve Bank, which provided me with practical experienceof econometric modell<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ner work<strong>in</strong>gs of a central bank. I havealso done much travell<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Australasia.Daan SteenkampManjula Weerasekera from Sri LankaI am a lecturer attached to <strong>the</strong> Department of Microbiology, Faculty ofMedical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. At present I am study<strong>in</strong>gfor a PhD <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Department of Pathology and Molecular Medic<strong>in</strong>e, at <strong>the</strong>Well<strong>in</strong>gton School of Medic<strong>in</strong>e and Health Sciences, Otago University. Ourgroup is ma<strong>in</strong>ly work<strong>in</strong>g on dental caries and dental plaque microcosms. Myresearch is on dental caries and <strong>the</strong> role of yeast on caries, which mostly<strong>in</strong>cludes molecular biology. New Zealand is a great place to live and study.April 2007 11
ABOUT THE CSFP…The <strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> and FellowshipPlan (CSFP) is one of <strong>the</strong> oldest and mostprestigious schemes of its k<strong>in</strong>d <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world. It wasestablished at <strong>the</strong> first Conference of<strong>Commonwealth</strong> Education M<strong>in</strong>isters <strong>in</strong> 1959. S<strong>in</strong>ce,over 24,000 <strong>in</strong>dividuals have held awards, hostedby over twenty countries.From <strong>the</strong> outset, <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom has been <strong>the</strong>largest s<strong>in</strong>gle contributor, and over half of <strong>the</strong>awards have been held here. CSFP awards <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdom are managed by <strong>the</strong><strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>, a publicbody established by Act of Parliament. Twogovernment departments fund <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commission</strong>: <strong>the</strong>Department for International Development, whichsupports awards to develop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Commonwealth</strong>countries, and <strong>the</strong> Foreign and <strong>Commonwealth</strong>Office, which supports awards to <strong>the</strong> rema<strong>in</strong>der of<strong>the</strong> <strong>Commonwealth</strong>.Day-to-day adm<strong>in</strong>istration of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> ishandled by its Secretariat, which is based at <strong>the</strong>Association of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> Universities. TheBritish Council handles welfare and f<strong>in</strong>ancialadm<strong>in</strong>istration, and provides pre-departure advicethrough its local offices.At present, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> offers six discrete typesof award:We hope that you have enjoyed this edition of <strong>Commonwealth</strong><strong>Scholarship</strong>s News. If you have any feedback, or you have asuggestion for a future article (<strong>in</strong>deed you may be <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong>writ<strong>in</strong>g one yourself!) please get <strong>in</strong> touch with <strong>the</strong> Editorial Team at:comments@cscuk.org.uk<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong>s News<strong>Commonwealth</strong> <strong>Scholarship</strong> <strong>Commission</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>United</strong> K<strong>in</strong>gdomc/o The Association of <strong>Commonwealth</strong> UniversitiesWoburn House20-24 Tavistock SquareLondonWC1H 9FHUK• General <strong>Scholarship</strong>s• Academic Staff <strong>Scholarship</strong>s• Academic Fellowships• Split-Site <strong>Scholarship</strong>s• Professional Fellowships• Distance Learn<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Scholarship</strong>sFur<strong>the</strong>r details of current provision and selectionprocedures can be found on <strong>the</strong> UK section of <strong>the</strong>CSFP web site at http://www.csfp-onl<strong>in</strong>e.org