Professor Robin Mason appointed Chair of Commonwealth Scholarship Commission

Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Birmingham, has been appointed as Chair of the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK.

Sponsored by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the CSC supports innovators and leaders of the future from across the Commonwealth – providing a range of scholarships to attract outstanding talent to Britain’s universities.

As Chair, Professor Mason will lead development of the CSC’s strategy and ensure that the organisation works effectively with the FCDO, as well as national and international partners.

Professor Mason, who is also a decision-making Member of the Competition Appeal Tribunal and the Financial Conduct Authority, said: “The CSC connects Britain’s universities to the Commonwealth, further strengthening student mobility and the academic, economic and cultural benefits this brings to our country.

“I’m delighted and honoured to lead the CSC, particularly in the year when the Commonwealth comes to the UK for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games - an occasion in which the University of Birmingham is playing a key role.”

The CSC manages the UK’s contribution to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), an international programme under which member governments offer scholarships and fellowships to citizens of other Commonwealth countries. It demonstrates the UK’s enduring commitment to the Commonwealth - ensuring that its programmes promote equity and inclusion, reward merit, and deliver widespread access, especially to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

FCDO is the CSC’s lead department and main sponsor, funding awards exclusively for candidates from low- and middle-income countries. CSC also receives financial contributions from the Department for Education (DfE), for scholarships for candidates from high income countries.

The University of Birmingham is sponsor of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and official partner of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay. The University will be home to the majority of athletes and also host the hockey and squash competitions.

Its environmental scientists have helped create a hi-tech ‘heart’ for the Baton, which contains atmospheric sensors that analyse environmental conditions wherever it is in the world. Data collected on the Baton’s journey will contribute to research projects being conducted across the globe.