Ronn A. Grant, Political Economy Officer and analyst with the BVI Hong Kong Office, said the graduation of the first scholar “spoke to the magnitude of the programme, that it is achievable,” and noted rising interest and applications, with four new students set to join in the latest intake. Photo: Facebook

From left: Chanecia Pinnock, Deniqua McSheene, and Rushawn Johnson form the third cohort of the BVI Asia Abroad Scholarship Programme for 2026. Photo: Facebook

Ronn A. Grant, Political Economy Officer and analyst with the BVI Hong Kong Office, said the graduation of the first scholar “spoke to the magnitude of the programme, that it is achievable,” and noted rising interest and applications, with four new students set to join in the latest intake.

Mr Grant was being interviewed at the time by Chief Information Officer Nikita L. Turnbull.

The scholarship was launched with a clear mandate to channel Virgin Islanders into disciplines that will directly benefit the territory’s long-term development. Grant said the office gives preference and consideration to applicants targeting sectors outlined by the Premier, including tourism, finance, accounting, agriculture, sustainable development, and other priority areas identified for national benefit. “It is paramount, and that’s the rule of the office,” Grant said, emphasising that alignment with these sectors is a core criterion in the selection process.

Officials report not only increased curiosity about studying in Asia but also a measurable rise in formal applications, with four new scholars confirmed for this year’s intake as the programme continues to expand toward its longer-term enrollment targets.

First Graduate of the programme

Ms Tisa Donovan’s recent completion of a master’s degree as the first VI national to graduate under the Asia Abroad Scholarship has become a key reference point for prospective students and parents.

Grant said that a major focus of the Hong Kong Office’s work is ensuring students and parents are comfortable with the reality of studying “across the world.” 

BVI Hong Kong Office provides support to students 

Grant outlined a structured support framework that includes pre-departure engagement with students and families before they leave the Virgin Islands, a dedicated team meeting students upon arrival in Asia to guide them through initial processes, orientation and escorted introduction to the university campus and systems, ongoing liaison between the VI Representative Office, universities, and students, and the office serving as the first point of contact for academic or personal difficulties. 

“We want to make sure that our parents are comfortable. Most importantly, our students are comfortable,” Grant said, adding that the support structure is designed to address the unique challenges of studying far from home. 

Grant further stated that many scholars also return to the Virgin Islands during summer breaks for internships or vacation, maintaining ties with local employers and communities while gaining international experience.

The Asia Abroad Scholarship operates on a three-way partnership among participating Asian universities, the VI Government, and the private sector. Awardees can receive a combination of full or substantial tuition waivers from partner universities, government and private-sector support for housing, airfare, and living expenses, and access to stipends and grants where eligible. Applications are coordinated through the BVI Hong Kong Office, which manages recruitment, interviews, and liaison with partner institutions across Asia.