29-year-old Christopher Kember from Kilgetty in Pembrokeshire, studies at the University’s St David’s Park Campus in Carmarthen, and has been chosen as one of only three recipients of the Florence and Don McGregor Scholarship that will enable him to participate in the programme based in Bangalore.

The programme, which is run by St Joseph’s College of Commerce in Bangalore, and facilitated by Swansea University’s International Development Office, comprises three weeks of learning, experiencing and enjoying every aspect of Indian culture and tradition.

Christopher, said: “I was initially doubtful I would be successful as there were only 3 scholarships to be won, however I set about writing an essay and drawing up a CV in support of my application.  

“It was an anxious wait but I was overwhelmed by the amazing news that I had been chosen as one of the Florence and Don McGregor scholarship recipients for the India summer programme. The generous scholarship has funded £1,500 towards the cost of the India programme, and includes flights and accommodation.”

Activities and excursions during the programme include sessions in yoga and art therapy, lectures on Indian history, culture and women in society.
A trip to the Narayana Institute of Neurosciences is planned, which consists of talks and a tour of the different hospital departments.


After completing his first year of study last summer, Christopher travelled to Nepal, volunteering as a nurse at a hospital in Kathmandu, and assisting at a local orphanage.

Christopher said: “As a nursing student, this programme is an invaluable opportunity to develop my knowledge and understanding of Indian culture, as knowing significant religious and cultural details is vital to nursing practice, and should be central to adequate care planning to ensure patients’ retain self-respect, integrity and dignity.  I expect this experience will be profound and long-lasting.”

Picture: John Hinkin, Senior Nursing Lecturer with Adult Nursing student, Christopher Kember.