King’s new scholarship programme for Commonwealth civil servants launched

The International School for Government at King’s College London has launched a new scholarship programme for mid-career civil servants of Commonwealth member states.

Funded by British entrepreneur, mathematician and philanthropist Ben Delo, The Ben Delo Commonwealth Leadership Programme, offers civil servants from across the commonwealth the opportunity to study from the diverse curriculum of post-graduate level, online, four-week short courses, all designed to build impact and effectiveness across policymaking and good governance. The courses blend academic rigour and practical application to equip Commonwealth civil servants from across the world with the skills they need to optimise their professional impact and effectiveness, and advance in their careers.

Each course has been developed by leading academics in partnership with digital entrepreneurs, politicians, policymakers, design experts and other practitioners. These short courses at King’s are accredited at master’s level and offer new perspectives on contemporary governance issues.

At King’s we have longstanding ties with the Commonwealth countries, providing opportunities to enable talented and motivated individuals to gain the knowledge and skills required to advance in their careers. Thanks to Ben and his support of this new scholarship programme, we are able to reach even more outstanding ambitious civil servants who will gain access to King’s academics whilst continuing with their careers. We look forward to welcoming them into our diverse community at King’s.
– The Hon Alexander Downer AC, Executive Chair of the International School for Government, and former Australian Foreign Minister and High Commissioner to the UK
The Commonwealth is a global community built on liberal ideas, shared history, and democratic values. I believe it is an increasingly important international network that strengthens connections, shares knowledge and skills, and spreads prosperity. Through this scholarship programme we will be able to provide the Commonwealth’s future leaders in policy-making and public management with access to King’s world-leading expertise and experience. I am delighted to play a small part in advancing the development and career prospects for some of the Commonwealth’s most promising public sector professionals and strengthening UK-Commonwealth ties in the processes.
– Ben Delo, sponsor of The Ben Delo Commonwealth Leadership Programme
In order to be eligible, candidates must be civil servants of Commonwealth countries (which includes British Overseas Territories) and have at least three years’ relevant work experience.

Applications for nominations to the programme, which aims to support as many as 100 students in the 2023 calendar year, are now open.