Two Zambian graduates from the University of Zambia (UNZA) and ZCAS University have been selected for the prestigious 2027 Rhodes Scholarships, earning an opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
Dr Maariyah Sajid Desai, a medical doctor and clinical researcher from UNZA, and Mr Luyando Sepiso Linyama, an Audit Associate at EY Zambia and ZCAS University graduate, will join more than 100 international scholars in October 2027.
Rhodes Trust National Secretary for Zambia Dr Namukale Chintu announced the two scholars following a rigorous selection process completed on October 29, involving seven finalists.
The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1903, is regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious postgraduate fellowships. Zambia has participated since 1976, with two scholarships awarded annually.
Desai hopes to pursue an MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine at Oxford, building on her medical training and research into women’s reproductive health.
She graduated from UNZA with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), having previously been recognised as the Best Female Graduating Student in Human Biology and Best Student in Pathology in 2024.
Her research into barriers to diagnosis and treatment of Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome has been published in the Medical Journal of Zambia. She has also participated in reproductive health initiatives and served as Secretary General of the University of Zambia Medical Students’ Association.
Desai aspires to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and contribute to improving women’s healthcare through research, policy and better access to services.
Linyama, meanwhile, intends to pursue an MSc in Financial Economics at Oxford, with a particular interest in financial markets, investment decisions and sustainable economic growth.
A Banking and Finance graduate of ZCAS University, he graduated with distinction as the best-performing student in his programme. His dissertation examined financial inclusion among Zambian market traders.
He previously studied Economics in China before returning to Zambia following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He subsequently developed professional experience in banking, auditing and risk consulting.
Deputy National Secretary for Selection Dr Roy Moobola said the true value of the scholarship lay not only in academic achievement but also in the contributions scholars make to society.
Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Dr Kelvin Mambwe reaffirmed Government’s commitment to producing internationally competitive graduates, while British High Commissioner Rebecca Terzeon highlighted the longstanding educational partnership between Zambia and the United Kingdom.
Lord Mayor of Oxford Councillor Chewe Munkonge, who hails from Kasama, encouraged the finalists to pursue ambitious goals and build international networks.
Applications for the 2028 Rhodes Scholarships are expected to open in June 2027.
Picture: Dr Maariyah Sajid Desai and Mr Luyando Sepiso Linyama
