It is with great pleasure that Mukhtiar Singh and the Sikh Education Council launch the 2024 Guru Nanak Social Mobility Scholarships.

The aims of the scholarships are to improve social mobility in professions perceived to be out of reach for those from poorer background and to encourage a wider understanding of Sikh jurisprudence by considering whether society may learn from Sikhism for the benefit of us all. The scholarship has run since 2018.

In celebration of the 555th birthday of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, this year’s format is different to previous scholarships although the criteria remains the same.

Application

This year's scholarship will not take the form of an essay. Instead, applicants must make a 5 to 10 minute video presentation on the question, “Why I should be awarded a Guru Nanak Social Mobility Bar Scholarship?

For full details of the Scholarships; and how to apply, please visit  Current Bar Scholarships - Mukhtiar Singh - Barrister (singhbarrister.co.uk)

The deadline is 9am, 2 August 2024. The presentation must be accompanied by the application form, a 1 page covering letter and 2 references.

Eligibility

The scholarships are open to all aspiring barristers from working class background, regardless of faith or non-faith.

Awards

Up to five prized of £555 will be awarded and up to 12 months of mentoring. Some work experience may be offered and all genuine applicants will be offered assistance with pupillage forms.

Further details

We are delighted that a number of previous winners attained pupillage, including Harrison Burroughs, Rehab Jaffer, Anu Lal and Gemma Grant. Harrison said:

"I highly recommend all aspiring barristers apply for this scholarship.  The Guru Nanak award is an incredible opportunity and it is only with Mukhtiar's support that I have been able to pursue a career at the Bar and obtain pupillage."

Details of previous winners and their essays can be found here: Previous Scholarships - Mukhtiar Singh - Barrister (singhbarrister.co.uk)

Mukhtiar Singh is a barrister at a Doughty Street Chambers and focuses his practice on tackling social injustice and inequalities in the workplace and beyond. Mukhtiar Singh | Doughty Street Chambers

The Sikh Education Council provides guidance; engages in research; and teaches about the Sikh way of life. The Sikh Way | The online home of the Sikh Education Council

If you are solicitor or a barrister, please let Mr Singh know if you wish to provide mentoring and work placements as part of the scheme