The UK ambassador emphasized the significance of the fully funded Chevening scholarship programme, which aims to foster global leaders and promote mutual understanding between London and Cairo.

The departing scholars of the 2024-2025 cohort, half of whom are females, represent seven different Egyptian governorates.

Their studies expand across diverse sectors, including railway operations, drug development, climate change finance, cancer biology, finance, law, development, international relations, education, and communication.

Interestingly, the British pioneer in oil and gas BP is sponsoring one scholar studying at the University of York.

Chevening alumnus Maged Shawky, Chairman and partner of Catalyst Partners Holding, spoke to the students about making the most of this excellent opportunity as they work on creating a positive impact on Egyptian society.

Shawky said, “For over 40 years, the Chevening programme has provided Egyptian youth with opportunities that are considered huge milestones in their career development and life experiences. Indeed, Chevening alumni have contributed greatly to Egypt’s growth and progress across diverse sectors.”

On the other hand, Bayley noted that as someone who has been the British Ambassador to Egypt for three years, “the passion and ambition of these empowered young men and women never ceases to amaze. Chevening is a programme that opens doors for future leaders through education and fosters lasting connections between the UK and Egypt. Together, we are building a network of change-makers dedicated to addressing global challenges and promoting mutual understanding.  I wish our departing Chevening scholars all the best in the UK and look forward to seeing how these scholars will use their experiences to serve their beloved country of Egypt.”

“There are more than 1,500 scholarships on offer globally for the 2024-2025 academic year, representing a significant investment from the UK government towards developing the leaders of tomorrow. More than 1500 Egyptians have been accepted in the programme since its launch in Egypt over 40 years ago,” he added.

Prominent Egyptian Chevening alumni include several influential figures who have contributed significantly to their respective fields. Among them are Ahmed Kouchouk, Minister of Finance; Amani Abou-Zeid, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy at the African Union Commission;  Mohamed Farid Saleh, Chairman of the Financial Regulatory Authority; and Sherif Kamel, Dean of the School of Business at the American University in Cairo (AUC).

Chevening Scholarships is the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations. The scholarships support study at UK universities – mostly one-year master's degrees – for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers.

The name 'Chevening' comes from Chevening House in Sevenoaks, Kent – currently the joint official residence of the UK’s Foreign Secretary.

The programme began in 1983 and has developed into a prestigious international awards scheme. Chevening scholars come from over 160 countries and territories worldwide (excluding the USA and the EU). Between 2024 and 2025, more than 1,500 scholarships were awarded.

Today, over 55,000 Chevening alumni worldwide comprise an influential and highly regarded global network.