More young people will gain access to higher education thanks to a donation made by graduates of Robert Gordon’s University.
During 2018, there has been a 130% increase in the number of alumni donating to students through the RGU Foundation.
The foundation has been able to expand on a number of initiatives as a result, by financing student scholarships, welfare services and art projects.
One of the projects to benefit from funding is The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.
Kyle Henderson, RGU student president and Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme co-ordinator, said: “RGU Union’s ability to provide the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is important because it gives students a highly valued and well recognised award, and in the process increases many of their core skills like confidence, teamwork, independence and dedication.
“The Duke of Edinburgh Award makes our students more employable and well-rounded people.
“We are grateful to the RGU Foundation for providing the student group with funding, for without the funding we would not be able to pay our licence fee and we would be unable to provide the Duke of Edinburgh Award.”
RGU’s rowing club will also benefit from a donation, and be able to purchase a new international standard coxless pair boat.
This boat, which has a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years, will benefit current and future generations of student athletes.
The fund will also support two access bursaries, which are match funded by the Robertson Trust, to allow exceptional students with the ability, though not necessarily the means, to attend university and receive financial support.
Professor John Harper, principal and vice chancellor of RGU, said: “Since its beginning RGU has been shaped by the generosity of our alumni and philanthropists.
“I am grateful to all in our alumni community who have chosen to continue this tradition by providing support to current and future generations of RGU students.”