We are delighted to welcome our latest cohort of Optiver Foundation Scholars to Oxford. The programme, now in its third year, has to date awarded 18 scholarships to students from 11 countries and across five continents.
The Optiver Foundation Scholarship Programme supports women from low- and middle-income countries to undertake Master’s courses at Oxford within science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects. Its aim is to promote greater diversity in postgraduate STEM programmes at Oxford as well as contribute to a more inclusive global scientific community. Scholarships are a crucial tool in enabling individuals, from all backgrounds, to pursue postgraduate study and to overcome potential financial barriers.
Our latest cohort is made up of women from Lebanon, Mexico, Ethiopia, Belarus, China and Kenya. They will be undertaking courses including here in Oxford Mathematics.
Mahabba El Sahili, who will be studying an MSc in Mathematics and Foundations of Computer Science says, “studying at Oxford is a dream that has grown with me over the years. I am excited to join its intellectual and diverse community and to spend the year in this beautiful city. I am looking forward to growing my knowledge and passion for mathematics and computer science during my time here.”
Professor James Naismith, Head of the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division (MPLS) in Oxford, said: “We are proud to welcome this new group of Optiver Foundation Scholars to Oxford. Their talent, determination and different perspectives enrich our community and strengthen our collective pursuit of scientific discovery. The Optiver Foundation’s continued generous support is helping us to attract brilliant women from around the world to Oxford."
Rashid Shah, Managing Director of the Optiver Foundation, said: “It is a privilege for us to support these exceptional scholars as they pursue their ambitions in STEM. We wish them success in their studies and future careers.”
Applications for next year’s Optiver Foundation Scholarship Programme are now open.