The Khalili Foundation, a global leader in fostering peace through arts, culture, and education, has been appointed as the Founder Member of The King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP). This announcement was made at the University of Samoa, in the presence of His Majesty King Charles III, Professor Sir Nasser David Khalili, and The Hon. Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas.
The Commonwealth’s Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face significant challenges, including economic shocks, climate change, and talent shortages in public services. These pressures are further intensified by youth migration, presenting a serious risk to peace and stability.
Developed in response to these urgent issues, the fellowship programme will be managed by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU). This multi-faceted programme will provide fellowships for mid-career professionals, undergraduate scholarships, and PhD placements, creating a layered impact for SIDS communities.
Inspired by The King and launched with support from The Khalili Foundation, alongside a generous personal donation from His Majesty, the programme has been developed with input from universities and stakeholders within SIDS and the broader Commonwealth.
Professor Sir Nasser David Khalili, Founder and Chairman of the Khalili Foundation, stated:
“We at the Khalili Foundation are honoured and proud to be the Founder Member of The King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme and to support the ACU in this quest to support Small Island Developing States combat climate change.
His Majesty has been at the forefront of promoting environmental sustainability and encouraging harmonious societies for many decades, issues and values that are closely aligned to our mission and priorities at the Foundation. I look forward to this being the beginning of a long and impactful partnership.”
