First cohort of Island Scholarship Programme students arrive in Orkney

Heriot-Watt University’s Orkney campus, the International Centre for Island Technology (ICIT) has welcomed its first cohort of students for its new Island Scholarship Programme.

The new scheme, launched as part of the Scottish Government’s new National Islands plan aims to encourage students to move to Orkney and could inform wider policy efforts to support population retention and attraction to Scottish islands.

Fifteen postgraduate students now have their fees paid in full by the scheme, which covers three specialist MSc courses: Marine Renewable Energy, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Transition and International Marine Science.

Professor Sandy Kerr, Director of ICIT said: “These scholarships have been awarded to us by The Scottish Government in recognising the National Islands Plan and also supported by Orkney Islands Council.

“So many of the small businesses that are working today in marine sciences and renewables, several have been started by former students, and this shows that we can do cutting edge-science right here in Orkney.

“These new students are the first of what we hope are many to come in the years ahead and we hope that they decide to stay on and have an impact in our local communities and economy.”

Orkney has long been a hub for talented students to come to from all over the world and those who study at the Orkney campus end up building lasting connections during their time studying with the local community.

New student, Henry Hall who is studying as part of the programme for a MSc in International Marine Science said: “I’ve been off surfing, free diving already. I’ve come here to study the sea on an academic level but I’ve been down to the water every day.

“I can go down to the end of my garden and go for a swim in the morning and it feels like I’m connecting with the ocean on multiple fronts, it’s a great place to do that.”

Established in Stromness in 1989, ICIT is recognised as a world leader in research training and consultancy with expertise in renewable energy, marine science and environmental resources.

Sandy added: “I know how studying here changes peoples lives for the better. I’ve seen it for so many years, so it’s just wonderful to be the start of the year and having that expectation that that will happen for this group of students, but also as a member of the community here in Stromness, I’m very aware of the benefits is brought to the place over the years.

“So, I’m thrilled to be part of a process that’s brought these students here and I’m very grateful to the funders of course.”