British envoy hails “Brain Gain” as Pakistani scholars return home

ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 /DNA/ – The British High Commission Pakistan hosted a warm and celebratory Welcome Home Reception for the 2024/25 Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars, marking their successful completion of postgraduate study in the United Kingdom.

This year, 83 scholars returned to Pakistan after completing prestigious UK government-funded awards. This included 42 Chevening Scholars and 41 Commonwealth Scholars, comprising 19 Master’s scholars, 15 PhD scholars, and 14 Split-Site PhD scholars.

The event recognised their academic achievements, global exposure, and leadership potential, while also celebrating their reintegration into Pakistan’s growing alumni community.

The reception brought together returning scholars, senior alumni, and leadership from across the British High Commission to network, reconnect, and explore future avenues for collaboration and national impact.

Chevening scholar Sameen Nadeem said:

“Chevening has broadened my understanding of what I can achieve and how I can create real impact. Through the skills I gained such as community, leadership and open-mindedness- I now feel more confident in my ability to make a difference. I am excited to join the global Chevening network and work alongside others to address some of the world’s biggest challenges.”

Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE said:

“These scholarship programmes embody the very best of the UK–Pakistan partnership. Every year, talented Pakistanis go to the UK to study at world-leading universities and return with new ideas, global networks, and the confidence to lead. This is true brain gain, scholars bringing their expertise home to strengthen Pakistan’s institutions, drive innovation, and uplift their communities. Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are investments in Pakistan’s future leadership, and we are incredibly proud of this year’s returning cohort.”