British Council launches international scholarship programme with University of Portsmouth

The British Council has announced a new international scholarship scheme with the University of Portsmouth and the University of Stirling, aimed at strengthening English language teaching in government school systems across Ghana, Kenya, Türkiye, Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka.  

The scheme will award 30 fully funded scholarships to experienced educators to undertake part-time, online master’s qualifications in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) while continuing to work in their home countries. Each scholarship covers full tuition, along with return travel and living expenses for a bespoke two-week academic study visit to the UK.  

Educators based in Ghana, Kenya and Türkiye will undertake the MA TESOL (Distance Learning) at the University of Portsmouth, while participants from Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka will enrol on the MSc TESOL (Online) at the University of Stirling.  

Dr Gulsah Kutuk from the School of Education, Languages and Linguistics at the University of Portsmouth led the successful bid for 15 students from Kenya, Ghana and Türkiye to receive scholarships to study MA TESOL (DL).  

Dr Kutuk added: “We are delighted to welcome scholars from Ghana, Kenya and Türkiye onto our MA TESOL (DL) course. These scholarships support English language teachers who are already doing important work in their classrooms.  

“Studying online means scholars can test ideas in real time in their own settings, reflect on what works, and bring practical improvements to their students and colleagues. It is a privilege to be working with the British Council to deliver this scheme.” 

The programme is designed to support teacher development and leadership, strengthen classroom practice, and improve learning outcomes by providing access to world-class academic expertise and international professional networks.  

Dr Mat Round, Head of School from the School of Education, Languages and Linguistics, at the University of Portsmouth said: “This scheme reflects our shared commitment to empowering teachers worldwide. Through the MA TESOL, scholars will gain expertise to drive innovation and excellence in English language education.”  

Alison Devine, Head of English Connects at the British Council, said: “These scholarships represent our commitment to strengthening English language education by investing in the people who make the greatest difference - teachers. By providing access to globally recognised UK qualifications and professional networks, we are empowering educators to enhance teaching standards and inspire the next generation of learners.”  

All scholars will commence their studies in September 2026 on flexible, part-time programmes lasting up to 30 months. Courses will be delivered entirely online and include a two-week study visit to the UK, enabling in-person academic collaboration, professional networking and cultural exchange.  

Participants will benefit from access to leading UK university faculty, specialist learning resources and professional mentoring, alongside opportunities to build expertise in teacher development and education leadership. On completion, scholars will join the British Council’s global alumni network, supporting continued professional learning and collaboration worldwide.  

The School of Education, Languages and Linguistics (SELL) at the University of Portsmouth explores how people learn and communicate, preparing future teachers, language specialists and educational leaders. As a diverse global community, the School provides language learning across the University, professional training for educators and opportunities to develop intercultural skills.