Press Releases
Students benefit from generous scholarship scheme – University of Reading
Release Date : 08 December 2009
Students at the University of Reading are to benefit by almost £100,000 through scholarships for those studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects. The Eliahou Dangoor Scholarships, announced today, will assist 99 students over three years, who each receive £1,000. Dr Naim Dangoor, 95, a London-based businessman, has donated £3 million to help students across England and Wales over the three years, with a further £1 million from government. Dr Dangoor, who named the scholarships in honour of his father, said that the donation is his way of thanking the country that gave him refuge after he left Iraq in the 1960s. "I promised myself that if I was ever able to help a British university student I would, to assist the native people of the country that welcomed me,” he said. “But I never dreamt I would be able to make such a big contribution." The scholarships are administered by the 1994 and Russell Group universities, who together represent around 40 of the nation's leading universities. They will assist students mostly from under-privileged backgrounds. This year, 33 students at the University of Reading will receive the scholarships: 15 have been awarded to The School of Biological Sciences, 10 to the Department of Mathematics, 6 to the Department of Chemistry, and one each to Applied Statistics, in the School of Biological Sciences, and the Department of Archaeology. A further 66 will benefit over the following two years. Deputy Vice Chancellor Tony Downes said: “Dr Naim Dangoor’s generous donation will provide extra support for our talented students. We hope schemes like this will encourage more young people to choose science and engineering subjects in higher education.” Jennifer Ghandhi, Director of Student Services, said: “One of the merits of the scheme for applicants to Reading is that all students applying for the specified courses are eligible for consideration without the need to complete any extra application forms and that awards are made purely on merit. In conjunction with the University’s own entrance scholarships, well qualified entrants may be in the happy position of receiving up to £3,000 to support them during their first year. ENDS For more information please contact Rona Cheeseman on 0118 378 7388 or email r.cheeseman@reading.ac.uk
Notes to editor To qualify for the £1,000 scholarship, students must be due to enter their first year of study at either at a Russell Group or 1994 Group university, be taking a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), and be a UK home student who will pay tuition fees. University of Reading The University of Reading is rated as one of the top 200 universities in the world (THE-QS World Rankings 2009). · University of Reading is a member of the 1994 Group of 19 leading research-intensive universities. The Group was established in 1994 to promote excellence in university research and teaching. Each member undertakes diverse and high-quality research, while ensuring excellent levels of teaching and student experience. www.1994group.ac.uk · More information at www.reading.ac.uk