Fife College students celebrate scholarship achievements

There were 143 recipients this year who can boost their studies and future careers thanks to funds awarded from The Russell Trust.

The scholarships ranged from £50 to £300, helping students to purchase essential equipment and resources needed for their educational endeavours, and a ceremony was held at the Carnegie Conference Centre in Dunfermline.

One of this year’s recipients was Emma Roberts from Kelty, an NC Pathway to Social Sciences student. 

She has been facing health issues and said the scholarship was particularly useful for covering costs related to her assistance dog, six-year-old red and white setter Callie.

Emma said: "The money awarded has been invaluable in helping pay for Callie’s training.

"I cannot work at the moment as I await further tests and cannot drive just now either.

"Callie helps me every day as she gives me the confidence to get going in the mornings and to use public transport.

"She helps keep me calm when I am in college and in time she will learn to alert me to impending seizures."

Trustee Iona Russell said: "The Russell Trust is delighted to present these scholarship awards to Fife College students.

"Sir David Russell, the founder of the Russell Trust, placed great emphasis on promoting higher education for the youth of Fife, and over 70 years later, it is fantastic to continue this through our Russell Trust Scholarship."

Lyn Gold, scholarship and alumni engagement lead at Fife College, said: "For 25 years, The Russell Trust has been a generous supporter of our students, and we are immensely grateful for their ongoing support.

"Witnessing the impact of the scholarship awards on our students, as shared during the presentation event, was truly heartening."

The trust contributes £15,000 annually to student support through the Adam Smith Scholarships, part of Fife College.

It has been the longest-standing scholarship at the college since its inception in 1999, awarding £212,000 to 1,235 students.