BRITISH High Commissioner to Zambia, James Thornton says his Government is determined to help Zambia attain the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Mr Thornton said the British Government was working hard to help Zambia achieve the primary MDGs such as those on water and sanitation.

Speaking at a pre-departure briefing for 21 Zambians awarded scholarships to undertake post-graduate studies in the United Kingdom (UK), Mr Thornton said the initiative was aimed at promoting greater capacity for the next generation of Zambian leaders.

He said the schemes would also help in the attainment of the MDGs through the nurturing of relations between the two countries.

"I am certain these gifted young people will return from their studies at some finest universities in the UK with the skills and knowledge to contribute significantly to Zambia's development," Mr Thornton said.