Every parent knows how important education is to the future of their children. The same goes the world over. So I have been struck, in the short time I have been in Guatemala and Honduras, by the level of interest in UK educational institutions and our teaching methods. Perhaps this isn’t so surprising given that, according to one survey, the UK has 4 of the world’s top 10 Universities, and that the quality and variety of education available is recognised as being amongst the best in the world.
The Embassy has been promoting British Education by showcasing the best of a UK undergraduate or postgraduate education, and promoting local education providers who have a link to the UK. We have held education roadshows, visited schools in Guatemala to inform students about UK education opportunities and answer students’ questions, and plan to hold another roadshow next year as part of British Week 2013. We also work to connect Guatemalan organisations with UK institutions to support Guatemalan students and business such as promoting partnerships between Guatefuturo and UK universities, and sponsoring a visit for regional clean energy researchers to see cutting edge UK university research in this field.
We also promote British education through scholarships. This month we have said goodbye to our Chevening Scholars, the future stars of Honduras and Guatemala, to undertake Masters studies in the UK. The Chevening scholarship programme is a great way for us to make a lasting links with people and at the award ceremony I was pleased to meet so many former scholars who view their experience of studying in the UK as transformational. The next round of applications will appear on our website in November and we would encourage Guatemalans and Hondurans considering postgraduate studies to apply.
But our education work here is not all about Higher Education. Last week I had an inspiring visit to the Escuela Esperanza in Jocotenango. This school provides education to some of the poorest children in the area and is supported by a UK based charity Education for the Children. The example they give in terms of taking a holistic approach to the well being and development of the children and their families is impressive. It has been a pleasure to work with them to see in practical terms how sport and the Olympic spirit can encourage young people to realise their potential. And I am glad that the Olympic torch they lent us made it back to the UK safely!