Students at Solent University in Southampton have received £1,000 bursaries.

The sum total of £34,000, awarded for the 2023/2024 academic year, is a part of the Local Student Bursary Scheme.

The scheme was launched in 2018, and in the last four years has distributed more than 140 bursaries in an effort to provide financial aid to local learners in Southampton and the nearby area.

Those who have attended a partner college are also invited to apply.

Recipient and BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing Practice student, Nela Mabbutt, said: “As a single mother and student nurse, this bursary will make a significant difference in my life, and I am sincerely thankful to the generous donors who have made this support possible. 

“I am truly touched by the kindness and generosity of the alumni, staff, and friends who have contributed to the Local Student Bursary Scheme."

The university boasts a proactive graduate community that actively contributes to the scheme as a way of 'paying it forward'.

A boon to the programme arrived last year when the university received a £125,000 donation from a local family who are part of the University's alumni community, securing the scheme's operation for another five years.

Solent’s pro vice-chancellor students and governance, Jim Irving, said: "As a university deeply rooted in its home city, Solent is proud to champion local students who have chosen us as their place of study. This scheme aims to boost their success by providing financial support at a pivotal stage of their academic journey. 

“Supporting students from the Southampton city region through the bursary scheme is just one of the commitments we have made to work with our communities to build a fairer and more sustainable future for Southampton and our region.” 

With more donations from Southampton, the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth’s 'generous' communities, the university can continue to award bursaries to incoming and existing students. Donations will impact students in the 2024/25 academic year.

Potential donors can contribute towards this cause by visiting www.solent.ac.uk/giving. Further information on scholarships, grants, and bursaries can be found at solent.ac.uk/finance.