London Metropolitan University is the single largest university in London with over 30,000 students from 115 countries. It is with much pride to Sri Lanka that the prestigious UK university recently awarded a full scholarship to 19-year old Kalindu Perera, to follow an undergraduate course in Pharmacology. Kalindu is the first Sri Lankan to have received an undergraduate scholarship from London Metropolitan University.

Commonly known as London Met, the university offers a range of scholarships to aid students who excel at their academics and need financial support to continue their higher studies. Each year over 1500 applications are considered for eligibility. Even though around 40 scholarships are awarded at postgraduate level, only 3 full scholarships are available for undergraduates, therefore making it a globally highly competed scholarship. The scholarship covers the cost of the entire course of study, including tuition and accommodation costs.

To be eligible for the scholarship, the prospective student must hold an excellent academic track record, be involved in extra-curricular activities, and should be from a country listed in London Met's priority country list.

The Sunday Times recently met with Kalindu at the British Council. Kalindu mentioned that he graduated from Gateway College in 2010 as a 'straight A' student and spent a gap year as an intern in a pharmaceutical company. His passion for studying organic chemistry led Kalindu to pursue his higher studies in the pharmaceutical industry. "My expectation is to become involved in HIV/AIDS research and to make a difference to the betterment of the world" enthused Kalindu. At the age of 19, this young lad has a clear vision about his future. Rather than just following popular trends in education, he has identified what his strengths are and how he plans to develop and use them to help others. Kalindu also told the Sunday Times about how his parents' support has helped him immensely to achieve his ambitions. At school, Kalindu was a member of the football team. His hometown is Piliyandala and he has a younger sister who is currently studying at Gateway College.

Kalindu applied for the scholarship to London Met through the British Council. Having a longstanding relationship with London Met, the British Council supported Kalindu through the application process and advised him on how to face the scholarship interview. The Sunday Times also met with the British Council Country Director, Mr. Tony Reilly.

"The Pharmaceutical industry is gaining popularity in the Sri Lankan market. Now that the war is over, it is encouraging to see that the Sri Lankan government is making positive changes in the system where all kinds of trades are given their due importance" said Mr. Reilly.

He continued to explain how the British education system aspires to maintain world-class quality in education and how the recent changes in visa rules and regulations of the Tier 4 system has made it easier for students to apply directly for educational programs in the UK, ensuring control over quality.
Mr. Reilly also mentioned that with the introduction of the International Graduate Scheme, the UK is encouraging employable graduates to retain in the country, making education in the UK a very attractive prospect. "Graduates can add more value to their studies by getting more practical exposure and in the long run it will be more beneficial to Sri Lanka to have these highly qualified young graduates to improve the standards of the country", said Mr. Reilly.

Mr. V. Sabarinath, Assistant Manager South India & Sri Lanka, London Metropolitan University, mentioned that at London Met, students can choose from a wide range of study courses, and are also exposed to a diverse background, while enjoying state-of-the-art facilities. He further stated, "The quality standard of the programs offered by London Met is such that students are very much in demand in the job market. Many prestigious organisations such as the Bank of England, Financial Times, and BBC Worldwide, boast of having London Met graduates among their employees."

Founded in 1848, London Met is considered one of the top 10 most popular universities in England for international students. Located in one of the most popular cities for its enriched multi-cultural and multi-national community, London Met is a popular choice when it comes to higher education, especially because the university offers a variety of sports and leisure activities, as well as social events and entertainment, in addition to its globally recognised study courses. Director Student Recruitment and International Development of London Metropolitan University, Mr. Mark Bickerton, told the Sunday Times that there are about 115 Sri Lankan students currently studying at the university.

London is not only popular for its educational institutions. It is one of the most desirable places to live in, in the world. Be it art galleries, museums, movie theaters, students are exposed to all aspects of life. With its skyscrapers, artistic cafes and parks, London is never a boring place to be.

London Metropolitan University warmly welcomes Kalindu Perera and all the other aspiring students. For more information about the university, please visit the university website: www.londonmet.ac.uk or visit the British Council at 49 Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03; Tel: 0117521521.