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ODA Scholarships
In June 2022 , Keele announced official development assistance ( ODA ) Scholarships to help support the growth of Keele ’ s Postgraduate Research community , enabling the targeted research work of the University ’ s four Research Institutes , and reducing barriers to access .
The scheme sought Postgraduate Research students from countries and territories eligible to receive official development assistance and was supported by the University with international fee-difference waivers and enhanced by alumni donations for home fee waivers .
Applicants for the ODA Scholarships submitted interdisciplinary research projects that were ranked and shortlisted . Candidates were subsequently interviewed and assessed by academic colleagues and a final award panel was led by the Keele Doctoral Academy , supported by Faculty Deans for Research and Institute Directors . In total , 35 applications were received , 13 were selected for funding , and 6 have started or will enrol soon at Keele .
the recruitment process was expeditious and flawless , spanning just about a month from application to receiving my offer .
“ Keele University , as an institution , has exhibited unwavering support , and I have been exceptionally fortunate to receive guidance from my esteemed supervisors , Dr Rachel Wood and Prof . Elizabeth Poole . I ardently hope that the University will persist with this scheme , as it not only fosters global research but also extends the opportunity to individuals like me to pursue a PhD at an internationally acclaimed institution .”
ODA is aid that promotes and specifically targets the economic development and welfare of developing countries .
“ I used to work with an international development cooperation organisation , and I think the ODA scheme is providing overseas students , especially those from less developed areas , great opportunities to learn and study sustainability for the global public good . This will also help the institute to increase its diversity and expand its geographic coverage among international alumni .”
His supervisor says : “ Andy has been enjoying the cross-faculty supervisory setup for his research project on sustainability and education . He gets support from both the Institute for Sustainable Futures , which provides balanced attention on both technological as well as human aspects of sustainability , and the School of Social , Political and Global Studies , which inspires him with the spirits of theoretical innovation and application in the real world .”
Chiadikaobi Ihuoma is one of the successful Postgraduate Research students who has received an ODA Scholarship . He comments : “ The Keele ODA scheme has profoundly transformed my life , providing me with a rare and invaluable opportunity to pursue a PhD programme at the esteemed Keele University . There are numerous individuals akin to me , residing in developing countries worldwide , who aspire to embark on PhD programmes but find themselves financially constrained . Surprisingly ,
Xiaohui ‘ Andy ’ Yu is another recipient and states : “ I ’ m really grateful for being able to join Keele and the Institute for Sustainable Futures . Prof . Zoe Robinson and Dr Marrit Hammond , my supervisors , welcomed me upon my arrival at the beautiful Keele campus in the spring . I enjoy every minute in my office in the Chancellor ’ s Building , which has big windows and a great view of the cherry blossoms . The Institute for Sustainable Futures covers a wide range of sustainability themes . This truly interdisciplinary scholarship environment is exactly what I have been looking for .
ODA Scholar , Sivakaran Navaratnam , says : “ My supervisor , Prof . Sorin Baiasu , has been approachable and friendly , readily extending his expertise by offering ample guidance and assisting me on every step of my PhD journey .
“ I am keen on engaging with peers and actively participating in local communities and social events . These activities not only offer an enriched platform to engage with the school ’ s initiatives , but also serve to cultivate meaningful connections with fellow students and esteemed academics .”