Welcome, Ellison Scholars: The first cohort start their Oxford journeys with an inspiring Welcome Retreat

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) proudly welcomed the first cohort of Ellison Scholars to the UK last week, marking a historic milestone in the Institute’s mission to cultivate the next generation of global technology innovators and leaders.

The Welcome Retreat, held at The Retreat at Elcot Park in West Berkshire, brought together 22 exceptional students - 17 undergraduates and 5 graduate Scholars - from 13 countries around the world. This immersive week of activities was designed to foster community amongst the group, spark inspiration, and introduce the Scholars to the leadership and innovation programming that will be a hallmark of their experience at EIT.

The Retreat served as a launchpad for the Scholars’ academic journey at the University of Oxford, where they will begin their studies this October. It also offered a first glimpse into the transformative opportunities that lie ahead through their involvement with EIT’s interdisciplinary projects focused on solving humanity’s most enduring challenges.

Dr Laura Lewis, Director of Education and Scholarships at EIT, said:

‍“I’m incredibly proud of this moment which marks the beginning of something truly special. These Scholars represent the future of global leadership and innovation, and it’s been a joy to witness the bonds they’ve already begun to form. I’m excited to see how they grow during their time at Oxford, both academically and personally. The Ellison Scholars programme is designed to empower them with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to make meaningful contributions to the world, and I have no doubt they will rise to that challenge with courage and creativity.”

Throughout the week, Scholars participated in panel discussions, guest speaker presentations, team-building activities and interactive sessions with EIT colleagues and more.  A highlight of the week was a visit from Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Executive Chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. In conversation with the Scholars, he fielded their questions and shared insights from his vast knowledge and experience, brilliantly kicking off the EIT leadership and innovation programming.

Dr Santa Ono, President of EIT Global, who spoke to the Scholars in the Retreat’s closing session along with Principal Scientist at EIT, Professor Gil McVean, said:

‍“It has been a privilege to meet and engage with the first cohort of Ellison Scholars at Oxford University. I am struck by the depth of their intellectual curiosity, the rigor of their questions, and the energy they bring to discussions. The Scholars embody a commitment to interdisciplinary inquiry and to addressing complex global challenges through research, innovation, and collaboration. “Moments such as these underscore the vital role of nurturing emerging scholars whose perspectives and ideas will shape the future of science, technology, and society. I look forward with great interest to following their academic and professional contributions in the years ahead.”

As the Scholars now settle into their respective Oxford colleges, they carry with them the bonds formed during the Retreat and a shared commitment to tackling global challenges through innovation,collaboration, and purpose-driven leadership.

For more information about the Ellison Scholars programme and EIT’s mission, visit www.eit.org/scholars.