2009 marks the 75th anniversary of the British Council, an international British organisation for education and cultural relations, backed by FCO’s support. Created in 1934, the British Council is present in 223 cities and 109 countries, including Brazil – where there are offices in Brasilia, Rio de Janeiro, Recife and Sao Paulo. The purpose of the organisation is to promote an exchange of experience, as well as to strengthen relations between the Commonwealth and other countries where it is present. Its main focus varies between Education, English language, Science, Art, Governance and Human Rights.    

In every country where the British Council works, there are, approximately, 7,500 employed people, who receive about £195 million by the British Government to invest in projects. Not to mention the £210 million destined to delivering services to British institutions. Besides Government, the British Council can count on the support and partnership of many NGOs and private institutions.    

Amongst the main organisation’s projects, we can highlight student’s interchange and support to English language, promotion of debate on the relations between science, technology and society, besides other social issues related to society’s major concerns. For instance: human rights, access and right to information, and social inclusion. Discussions about the environment and the impact of Climate Change continue to be a priority for the British Council, as well as a more democratic science.    

The British Council offers opportunities of education in some of the Best British universities for students of all nations. Yearly, the British Government provides the Chevening Scholarships programme for post-graduation, master’s degree, extension and specialisation courses in the United Kingdom. Each year, about 25 Brazilians are benefited by the Chevening Scholarships programme.    

For more information about the British Council and education in the United Kingdom, visit: www.britishcouncil.org.br, and www.educationuk.org.br.

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