Chevening Scholars off to study in the UK
Governor Helen Kilpatrick flanked by Chevening Scholars Richard Tyson and Christina Ross
(CNS): The two newest Chevening Scholarship recipients are leaving this week to continue their studies abroad at universities in the UK. Governor Helen Kilpatrick recently hosted a farewell reception to recognise the success of Richard Tyson and Christina Ross, both civil servants in the Ministry of Health and Culture. Kilpatrick had previously presented their Chevening letters in a private ceremony attended by family members, government leaders and former scholarship recipients.
“I was delighted to be able to hold a reception to honour Richard and Christina and to be able to meet them and their families before they travel to the UK to take up their studies,” the governor said. “I wish them every success and look forward to welcoming them back next year.”
Chief Officer for the Ministry of Health and Culture Jennifer Ahearn applauded the recipients for their accomplishment. “I’m extremely pleased for both Christina and Richard, and very proud that they are part of the Ministry of Health and Culture team,” she said. “Both have a great work ethic, a positive attitude, critical thinking skills, and adaptability that will serve them very well as they commence this next chapter.”
Before working as an office support assistant in the engineering section of the Department of Environmental Health (DEH), Tyson started his government career as an intern. He said he was grateful for the ministry’s internship programme, because it gave him the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience within various departments.
“I believe the knowledge gained and my ability to network within the Cayman Islands Government was invaluable,” Tyson said. “I believe my position as both an intern and civil servant has prepared me to handle a variety of tasks, and I feel more confident in my ability to be flexible and adapt to any situation that I am placed in.”
After completing his master of science degree in environmental engineering at the University of Leeds, he plans to return to the Cayman Islands.
“As of now my plan is to return to the engineering department of DEH and work closely with the engineering managers towards becoming a chartered engineer,” he said.
DEH Director Roydell Carter, who is also a former Chevening Scholar, added, “Richard is a keen, dedicated and committed person with a strong work ethic, who has shown a significant desire to succeed. I anticipate him doing well in his endeavour and I look forward to his return when he will make invaluable contributions to the Cayman Islands.”
After completing her undergraduate studies, Ross joined the Ministry of Health and Culture in August 2013 as a human resources assistant.
She plans to read for a master of science degree in policy studies from the University of Edinburgh. When she completes her degree in September 2017, Ross will return to her position in the ministry.
“I thoroughly enjoyed working in the civil service and serving the people of the Cayman Islands. It is my ambition to continue to do, and further my career in the civil service,” she said.
Ross said her years in the ministry taught her invaluable lessons about the workings of public service.
“This will be extremely beneficial to me during my course, and even more so when I return,” she said. “It was my work in the ministry that awoke in me a passion for public service, and which ultimately led me to pursue this master’s degree.”
The Chevening Scholarship is granted to individuals who demonstrate strong leadership potential and have a robust academic background. Talented professionals and public servants from the Cayman Islands are eligible to apply for the award under the UK’s flagship scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. The scholarship offers financial support for a master’s degree at any of the UK’s leading universities.
Throughout the years, 27 Caymanians have received the Chevening Scholarship.
Applications are open for the 2017/2018 scholarships through 8 November 2016 at the Chevening website
Category: Education, Scholarships
