We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Gamma Scholarship Programme, designed to support and empower students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM). Starting in September 2024, Gamma will be providing four scholarships to undergraduate students – two at the University of Salford and two at Glasgow Caledonian University.
Key Facts About the Programme:
The scholarships will be available to students enrolled in full degree programmes in STEM fields. These scholarships are aimed at providing comprehensive support beyond just financial aid. Recipients will receive mentoring, summer break placements, industry exposure, and assistance with projects, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to succeed.
University of Salford:
At the University of Salford, 99% of students are state educated, with 40% coming from low-income backgrounds and 56% from the most economically disadvantaged areas in England. The University is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, ranking 12th in England for social mobility. This commitment aligns perfectly with the goals of our scholarship programme.
“The University of Salford is incredibly grateful to Gamma for their generous support through this Scholarship Programme. This initiative will make a significant difference for our students, from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with invaluable opportunities and resources. We are proud to partner with Gamma in fostering social mobility and empowering the future leaders in STEM fields. Together, we are helping our students become unstoppable.”
Denise Rennie – Acting Dean, School of Science, Engineering and Environment.
Glasgow Caledonian University:
Glasgow Caledonian University boasts a high percentage of undergraduate students from disadvantaged areas, at 21.3%, compared to the sector average of 13.6%. The University’s School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment (SCEBE) is one of the UK’s leading institutions, delivering modern, innovative, and accredited programmes. Gamma’s Direct business is already exploring partnership opportunities with GCU, including Graduate Apprenticeships.
Nina Campbell, Development Manager of the GCU Foundation, said “On behalf of Glasgow Caledonian University, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Gamma for making this generous pledge to support talented Computing and Cyber Security students from all backgrounds. As the University for the Common Good, we want to ensure that finance is not a barrier to education, so I am delighted to see the Gamma Scholarship programme come to fruition and look forward to seeing the transformational impact of this support.”
Why We’re Doing This:
The Gamma Scholarship Programme is aligned with our commitment to influencing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – specifically Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities, and Decent Work and Economic Growth. By supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds, we aim to make a direct impact within the communities we operate in, leaving a lasting legacy.
This programme also supports our efforts to target early careers and build a talent pipeline, which could be expanded in the future. Additionally, there are opportunities to promote the Gamma brand through communications, careers fairs, and industry events at the universities.
We believe in the potential of these students and are committed to supporting them through their educational journeys and beyond. The Gamma Scholarship Programme is more than just financial aid; it’s an investment in the future of our industry and the communities we serve.
Sarah Kirton, Group Sustainability Director, said “I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Gamma Scholarship Programme in partnerships with both the University of Salford and Glasgow Caledonian University. At Gamma, we believe that work can be a force for good, and we want to make a positive impact in the communities we are in.
One of our key values is that ‘we love to grow.’ By investing in students, we hope to offer not only financial support but also guidance to help our Gamma scholars become the best version of themselves, with greater opportunities open to them throughout their lives.
On a personal note, and having visited both universities, I’m pleased that we have partnered with providers in the areas that we have offices where I hope we can make a positive impact together. I will work to build relationships with Gamma scholars to enable them to further contribute to the advancement of innovation and technology within the ICT industry. I’m really looking forward to meeting the successful applicants and welcoming them into the Gamma family.”