PEXIM scholars organize first British-Serbian dinner at Cambridge University

(at the dinner)

PEXIM scholars have organised the first British-Serbian dinner at Trinity College, University of Cambridge, England, with the support of Sir Paul Judge, chairman of the British-Serbian Chamber of Commerce (BSCC) and founder of the university’s Judge Business School, to debate changes in the Serbian economy and build business and academic ties with the United Kingdom.

The PEXIM Foundation sponsors leading Serbian and Macedonian scholars to develop skills and experience at the University of Cambridge. Students then return to improve their home countries’ prospects for EU integration and global competitiveness in an initiative to counter the “brain drain” of young talent from SE Europe.

Guests also included Dr Dejan Popovic, Serbian ambassador to the UK, Michael Davenport, British ambassador to Serbia, and Michael O’Sullivan, Director of the Cambridge Overseas Trust.

Sir Paul mentioned the quality of mathematics teaching at the Belgrade mathematical school from which many students have been accepted to Trinity College, Cambridge, a global leader in mathematics since Isaac Newton was there in the 1600s. He added that the BSCC’s ambition is to encourage greater inward investment to Serbia in recognition of its strategic position, success in obtaining its EU candidacy status, and efforts to reform its economy.

Mr Mihail Petreski, president of PEXIM Foundation, stated his vision to help build a meritocracy in SE Europe in which young people can prosper and utilise their abilities to make a positive difference in their home countries. He called for greater cooperation between the British and Serbian governments, and organisations like the BSCC, to create an environment in which scholars can fulfil their potential.

To apply for a PEXIM scholarship, students can visit www.peximfoundation.org. Serbian businesses interested in accessing the British market, seeking UK-based strategic partners and international investors can join the BSCC via www.britserbcham.eu.

Examples of PEXIM Foundation Scholars

Milena Milicevic, 25, was accepted at Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge, to complete her Masters degree in Management. She obtained her first Masters degree in English Language and Literature from the Faculty of Philology, University of Belgrade. In 2011, Milena worked as an intern at the German Parliament in Berlin, assisting an MP on economy and technology issues, supporting public relations activities and attending management lectures at Humboldt University. Milena will return to Serbia by August and is currently seeking a private sector role.

Tijana Gajic, 28, was accepted at Girton College and the Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, to undertake a Masters degree in Innovation, Strategy and Organisation. She graduated from the Mihailo Petrovic-Alas high school in Belgrade and Faculty of Economics, University of Belgrade, with a major in Finance, Banking and Insurance. She spent two years working for an international professional services firm on audit and consulting projects. Tijana will return to Serbia in a project finance role with Continental Wind Partners, a multinational company that develops wind farms across SE Europe and other global markets.