eligibility
"This scheme is very effective in building capacity in developing
countries without too much fuss. This is what I admire most about it."
Awards are made at the personal recommendation of the Lord Mayor. They are ‘one-off’ awards, and generally limited to those working in the countries which the Lord Mayor is visiting in any one year. The Lord Mayor is advised by British Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Consuls General on the most suitable recipients. Local British Council offices and businesses also are involved in the selection process.
Bids are ideally discussed in advance of the Lord Mayor’s visit so that awards can be made whilst in the country along with the presentation of a Mansion House Scholar’s certificate. Identifying a suitable candidate together with the relevant course is often difficult. Accordingly, and as and when necessary, awards granted are available to be taken up within the ensuing twelve months.
It is likely that potential Mansion House Scholars will be business trainees
or officials as well as students studying at British universities. The latter
are expected to study a subject directly related to the financial services
sector and usually undertake Masters level degree courses.. Examples of those
who have been assisted in the past come from both the private and public sector
in areas such as central banking, regulation, privatisation, licensing and
municipal administration. Also, and as appropriate, the Lord Mayor’s
Scheme complements and extends initiatives from private and commercial firms
within their own business sectors as well as those selected by British Embassies
and High Commissions through the FCO's Chevening Scholarship Scheme.
Scope
Flexibility is the key, however most grants will be made to cover course fees or travel and subsistence costs for a business attachment. Others might take the form of top-up grants to complement those being provided by other organisations for longer courses. Generally, grants are in the region of £5,000 to £8,000.