British Council launches international awards to celebrate UK alumni achievements

The British Council is pleased to announce the tenth year of its Study UK Alumni Awards programme, celebrating the outstanding achievements of UK alumni around the world. The award winners and finalists are leaders in their fields who have used their experience of studying at a UK university to make a positive contribution to their communities, industries and countries.

This year’s award categories include science and sustainability, business and innovation, culture and creativity and social action. The call for applications opened on 1 September 2023 and closes on 22 October 2023. All eligible applicants will be put forward for the global Alumni Awards and national Alumni Awards which will be hosted in many countries including Sri Lanka.

The Country Director British Council in Sri Lanka, Orlando Edwards, said: “I am delighted that UK alumni in Sri Lanka will have the opportunity to win the awards in these four exciting categories. Previous awardees have showcased their commitment to applying the knowledge gained from their UK studies to benefit their local communities.

“At the British Council we believe that international education and collaboration are essential in creating a more prosperous world for all and are proud to support these individuals in fulfilling their potential.”

Dr Asha De Vos , UK alumnus, Founder and Executive Director of Oceanswell, while sharing her education journey from University of St Andrews and University of Oxford to becoming a leading marine conservationist in Sri Lanka said: “Being an alumnus from the UK has been an incredible experience. It has allowed me to create collaborations and partnerships with people not only in my field but also beyond.

“We can come together respectfully, build mutual partnerships, and foster understanding that can help us resolve issues from a very local perspective in a way that benefits us globally”.

Global Awards

The finalists and winners of the global Alumni Awards will be announced in 2024 and celebrated in a digital campaign that will raise the profile of their story and successes. Award winners have the opportunity to raise their international profile, expand their professional networks, and to enhance their careers, through a professional networking visit to the UK.

National Awards

In addition to the global awards, national award ceremony will also be hosted in Sri Lanka. Finalists for the national awards will be announced between December 2023 and March 2024.

For full details on the eligibility criteria and participating countries, please refer to https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/alumni-awards