How an Access Edinburgh Scholarship helped Yafet thrive!
When Yafet first stepped into his local IntoUniversity Centre in Little London, university wasn’t yet on his radar. But that space quickly became more than just a homework club , it was the beginning of a journey that would eventually lead him to the University of Edinburgh.
The centre offered vital support to Yafet and his friends: structured homework help, information sessions about university life, and advice on subjects they might enjoy. But one experience changed everything, a residential trip to Edinburgh. That visit opened Yafet’s eyes to what was possible. He was captivated by the city, the University, and the idea that he could belong there.
“I knew after that trip that Edinburgh was where I wanted to study. I fell in love with the city,” Yafet recalls.
Back home, his interests began to sharpen. Inspired by conversations with his dad , who shared that many of his clients recommended data science as a field with huge potential, Yafet decided to explore computing. He enrolled in a computer science course at school and was instantly hooked.
That early passion grew into a clear goal. The University of Edinburgh’s global reputation for Artificial Intelligence, particularly its role as a leader in ethical and accessible AI development, made it the ideal place to study. For students like Yafet, from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, being part of the future of AI is not just exciting — it’s essential.
Thanks to the support of alumni donors through the Access Edinburgh Scholarship, Yafet was able to turn his ambition into reality. Now in his third year studying Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science, he reflects on just how far he’s come.
“Edinburgh has been everything I wanted from a university experience."
But it’s more than just the academics. The scholarship has made it possible for Yafet to fully immerse himself in student life. He’s joined the Formula Student Engineering Society, plays for Informatics Rugby, and attended his first ever ball with the Irish Society. These experiences have helped him build friendships, grow in confidence, and make the most of every opportunity.
“The scholarship allows me to say ‘yes’ to things,” he explains. “I can go for a coffee with course friends to talk through our presentation, instead of rushing off to a shift. I can be part of a community here.”
The practical benefits are also profound. The scholarship helped Yafet purchase a laptop essential for his course. It’s meant he doesn’t need to take on multiple part-time jobs, giving him more time to focus on his studies and extracurriculars. For Yafet, it’s clear: the scholarship has helped level the playing field.
“There’s nothing that separates me anymore. It helps academically on a day-to-day basis and gives me the freedom to pursue what I love.”
Yafet is now paying it forward by mentoring school pupils in a deprived area of Edinburgh, full-circle moment inspired by his own experience at IntoUniversity.
Many students like Yafet still face barriers to accessing higher education. Around 50% of school leavers don’t go into tertiary education. Within that group are thousands of talented young people who simply can’t see a route forward, due to financial constraints, lack of support, or uncertainty about what’s possible.
That’s where support from alumni and friends come in.
By donating to scholarships, you are helping remove those barriers. You are investing in students like Yafet, in their potential, their ambition, and their future impact.
Thank you to our alumni and friends for supporting scholarships. You’ve helped create lasting change. In Yafet’s own words:
“Alumni donors have made me a better person. You’ve given me the freedom to pursue my passions and hobbies at the University of Edinburgh, such as being a mentor to school-age children in a deprived area of the city.”
Your gift doesn’t just support a student, it supports a story, a future, a ripple effect of opportunity. And together, we can continue to make that difference. Thank you.
Watch a message of appreciation from Yafet by clicking on the below video link (please note by clicking on this link you will be provided with the option of watching on our YouTube Channel which includes subtitles)
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Creating opportunity together: The University of Edinburgh and IntoUniversity partnership in action
The University of Edinburgh has partnered with education charity IntoUniversity and the University of Glasgow to tackle deep-rooted educational inequality in some of Scotland’s most deprived areas. Together, they’re creating life-changing opportunities for children and families who have long faced barriers to educational success.
Founded in 2002, IntoUniversity operates 45 centres across the UK, supporting over 55,000 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds every year. Their mission is clear: to provide local, long-term support to help young people achieve their potential—be it through higher education, employment, or vocational training. In 2021, with the generous backing of donors and supporters, IntoUniversity brought its proven model to Scotland, establishing learning centres in Craigmillar (Edinburgh), and Maryhill and Govan (Glasgow).
Since opening, the Scottish centres have supported nearly 6,000 young people through after-school academic support, mentoring, skills workshops, and enriching experiences. The results are already profound. One young student reflected:
“I really like coming to the centre—it's very relaxing and calming. I used to get Cs and now it’s all As.”
Another parent praised the transformation in her daughters:
“IntoUniversity has given both of my daughters a lot of confidence… My youngest presented in front of a group recently—something she would never have done before.”
These centres operate in areas where up to 25% of children live in relative poverty and all fall within the 10% most deprived areas in Scotland. Poverty and educational underachievement are closely linked, creating cycles of disadvantage that can persist across generations. The IntoUniversity model breaks this cycle by intervening early—working with students as young as seven—and providing consistent, long-term academic and pastoral support.
The impact of the University of Edinburgh’s partnership has extended beyond the classroom. In the 2023/24 academic year alone, IntoUniversity Scotland engaged 3,975 young people, hosted over 90 campus tours, and welcomed more than 1,850 young people onto university campuses—many for the first time despite living nearby.
As part of the University’s wider commitment to widening access, this collaboration complements initiatives such as bespoke scholarships and sustained engagement with Scottish high schools. Since 2018, applications from partner schools have increased by 68%, and offer rates for SIMD20 applicants have nearly doubled.
Yet, as we look to the future, the need remains critical. Funding for IntoUniversity Scotland is secured only until summer 2025. To sustain and expand this work through 2030, the partnership must raise £6.46 million.
The University of Edinburgh, as the UK’s first civic university, has a long history of serving the local community and championing education for all. This collaboration is a continuation of that legacy—a testament to the belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves the chance to succeed.
With further support, we can ensure that the young people of Craigmillar, Maryhill, and Govan continue to access the guidance, encouragement, and opportunity they deserve.
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Stepping up for MND Research at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival
On Sunday, May 25, a passionate team of runners came together for a cause far greater than personal achievement. Taking part in the Edinburgh Half Marathon, they ran with purpose—to raise funds and awareness for Motor Neuron Disease (MND) research through the Euan MacDonald Centre.
MND is a life-shortening condition that gradually damages the nervous system, affecting movement, speech, swallowing, and eventually breathing. There is currently no cure. But thanks to the unwavering commitment of our community, researchers are making real progress in understanding the disease and working towards new treatments.
A powerful day of action and unity
The energy at the Edinburgh Marathon Festival (EMF) was electric. From the heart of the city to the scenic coastal route, our runners—many of whom have personal connections to MND—took on the challenge in honour of loved ones, friends, and the wider MND community.
It wasn’t just about the half marathon. Across the country, others got involved by taking part in local park runs and rallying support online. Together, they formed a united front, showing what’s possible when a community steps up.
“The dedication we saw at this year’s EMF was truly inspiring—proof that our community is determined to push forward for new treatments,” said Dr Rebecca Devon, EMF marathon relay runner and Clinic Director at the University of Edinburgh. “Every step we take together helps bring hope to families affected by MND.”
Funding critical research at the Euan MacDonald Centre
All funds raised from EMF will support cutting-edge research at the Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research, based at the University of Edinburgh. The Centre brings together world-class scientists, clinicians, and people living with MND, all working together to better understand the condition and accelerate the development of effective treatments.
Since its founding in 2007, the Centre has been at the forefront of MND research in the UK and beyond. It is named after Euan MacDonald, who was diagnosed with MND in 2003 and co-founded the Centre with his father, Donald MacDonald, with the goal of transforming outcomes for people living with the disease.
There’s still time to make a difference
So far, this year’s campaign has raised a fantastic amount—but we’re not done yet. MND remains a complex and devastating condition. Continued funding is essential to support ongoing clinical trials, laboratory discoveries, and new innovations in care.
To everyone who took part—whether you ran, donated, volunteered, or spread the word—thank you. Your efforts bring hope to thousands of people living with MND and their families.
If you haven’t yet had the chance to get involved, it’s not too late. Every donation supports research that could change lives. Together, we can change the future of MND, one step at a time.
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Fundraising runners, teams and activity for the Euan MacDonald Centre
Insights Programme 2025: A global journey of connection and confidence
The 2025 Insights Programme has come to an end, but the energy, ideas and inspiration it sparked continue to resonate throughout the University of Edinburgh community.
This year’s programme brought together just over 120 second-year students from underrepresented backgrounds in Higher Education and more than 150 alumni volunteers from across the globe in a series of powerful, transformative experiences
Whether through one-to-one mentoring, workplace visits or virtual sessions, the programme opened doors into a wide variety of industries and career paths. Students were able to ask questions, gain real-world insight, and develop the confidence to take the next step in their own journeys. It was a truly global effort—alumni from sectors ranging from law and finance to the creative industries and healthcare gave generously of their time and expertise to support the next generation of Edinburgh graduates.
At its heart, the Insights Programme is about widening horizons. It offers students—who are the first in their family to attend university or have limited professional networks—the chance to see what’s possible. It’s also about building lasting connections. The relationships formed through the programme can be transformative, providing not just career advice and also ongoing encouragement, mentorship and inspiration.
One student who took part in this year’s programme during a visit to Boston shared:
“Through Insights I gained so much exposure into the professional world – what it entails, what skills I need, and it helped really emphasise the importance of networking. I've gained so much confidence having personal chats with the alumni. Thank you.”
Since its launch in 2018, the Insights Programme has supported over 300 students through in-person travel experiences, with many more engaging in the online version developed during the pandemic. The reach and legacy of the programme continue to grow—many former participants are now returning as alumni hosts themselves. In Scotland, one in five current hosts are Insights alumni; in London, it’s one in six.
This powerful cycle of support is sustained by the generosity of our alumni community and donors, whose contributions help remove barriers and make these experiences possible. As alumni go on to thrive in their careers, their willingness to give back ensures that the next generation of students can benefit in the same way.
Whether you're a student eager to gain insight into your future, or an alumnus looking to offer guidance, the Insights Programme is a remarkable example of the Edinburgh community in action—collaborative, ambitious, and committed to lifting each other up.
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Leading with Purpose: Meet Ash Scholz, the new Edinburgh University Students’ Association President
For Ash Scholz, the University of Edinburgh has always been more than just a place to study—it’s where they found community, purpose, and the drive to make meaningful change. Now, as the newly elected President of Edinburgh University Students’ Association, Ash is ready to channel that passion into improving the student experience for nearly 50,000 students.
Originally from Leipzig in East Germany, Ash first came to Edinburgh not as a student, but through a volunteering opportunity. “I hadn’t even applied to university here at first,” they recall. “But I fell in love with the city and knew I had to stay. I applied to the University, got in, and feel very lucky to have studied here.” Ash has now graduated with a degree in History and Politics, and their route to the EUSA presidency was shaped by a deep commitment to representation and equality.
During their third and fourth years, Ash served as LGBTQ+ Liberation Officer, one of six positions dedicated to supporting marginalised student groups. That experience showed them how much more could be done. “There were so many things I wanted to change—things embedded in long-standing traditions and systems. I realised that if I wanted to help shape those decisions, I needed to step up and lead.”
After a two-week campaign earlier this year, Ash was elected President by the student body. They now take on the role during what they acknowledge is a particularly challenging time—not just for the University, but for higher education more broadly. “We’re seeing the impact of global uncertainty, rising costs, and funding pressures that are being felt across the sector,” they explain. “It’s a difficult moment, but that makes it even more important to protect the student experience and ensure students remain at the heart of decision-making.”
Ash’s plans for the year ahead are focused and ambitious. First, they’re determined to protect the quality and accessibility of student life despite financial pressures. Second, they want to enhance student representation beyond the five elected sabbatical officers. “It’s a huge honour to represent the student body, but we need to hear from more students, more regularly. We’re looking at ways to better gather feedback and close the loop—so students know their voices lead to action.”
The third pillar of their platform is affordability. Edinburgh is a vibrant city, but an expensive one—and Ash knows that for many students, the cost of living can be overwhelming. “I want to push for better housing support and make transport more affordable—especially for mature and postgrad students over 22 who don’t benefit from schemes like the Young Scot card.”
Beyond policy, Ash is also a firm believer in the importance of the wider student experience—societies, sports, volunteering and friendships—something they believe donor support plays a vital role in preserving. “Without that support, the student experience in Edinburgh wouldn’t be the same,” they say. “Grants like the Student Experience Grants make it possible for people to take part in societies or sports clubs who otherwise couldn’t afford to. That was true for me—I found most of my closest friends through those spaces.”
Ash is also a strong advocate for scholarships that increase access. “Without scholarships and support, there are students who simply wouldn’t be able to live and study in Edinburgh. The generous donations we receive help make the University a place for everyone—not just those who can afford it. That’s powerful.”
As they prepare for their sabbatical year, Ash is motivated by a simple but profound goal: “I hope my work can make a difference.” And if their track record so far is anything to go by, they’re already well on their way.
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Supporting Student Sport: EUSU’s new president Liv Stevens shares her vision
Fresh from graduating with a degree in History and Politics, Liv Stevens is already active into her new role as President of the Edinburgh University Sports Union (EUSU). As she begins her year at the helm, Liv brings with her years of club leadership experience, a deep-rooted passion for student sport, and a clear vision for widening access and enhancing wellbeing across the University’s sporting community.
“I’ve played netball since I was 10,” Liv explains. “At Edinburgh, I started with the recreational teams, then moved through to vice-captain and finally club captain. Netball has been a huge part of my university life – it’s shaped who I am.” That progression, from enthusiastic participant to club leader, paved the way for her election to EUSU President earlier this year.
Though only a few weeks into the role, Liv has already set out four key priorities: wellbeing, widening participation, club partnerships, and alumni engagement.
One of Liv’s main focuses is improving mental health support. “I’m aiming to get mental health first aid training for all wellbeing and inclusion officers across our clubs. It’s so important that students feel supported—and that those offering support are properly equipped,” she says.
Her commitment to inclusivity is personal. “I come from a state school background and I want to make sport more financially accessible and work with groups already supporting underrepresented students.”
She’s also keen to encourage stronger collaboration between clubs. “Partnering club presidents so they can mentor and support each other is a simple idea, but it can have a big impact,” she says.
One further key area Liv is particularly passionate about is alumni engagement and the vital role that donations play. “Some clubs have amazing alumni networks—others are just starting out. I want to help every club understand how they can connect with past members and build that support.”
As costs rise, donations from alumni and supporters are more crucial than ever. “The operational costs of running a club are going up—transport, coaching, equipment—it all adds up,” Liv says. “Even something like a £5 monthly direct debit can make a real difference over time. It’s not just about big gifts. Every donation really does count.”
Thanks to the work of last year’s executive team, clubs can now apply to use alumni funding for core running costs, not just one-off purchases. “That change means donations can help subsidise memberships, cover travel to competitions, or pay for coaching. It reduces the burden on students—and can open the door to those who might otherwise be excluded,” she adds.
With the help of the University’s generous supporters, she’s confident that even small contributions can have a lasting impact. “It’s not just about supporting sport—it’s about supporting students to thrive.”
Liv’s passion for student sport and her clear vision for equity and inclusion is inspirational. As she leads EUSU through the year ahead, she hopes to make university sport more welcoming, more supportive, and more sustainable.
Alan Rodger: A legacy of opportunity for the University of Edinburgh
Alan Rodger's journey from a working-class upbringing in Kirkcaldy to a distinguished career in oncology is a testament to perseverance, academic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the values of education. His dedication to leaving a lasting legacy to the University of Edinburgh reflects his belief in the transformative power of education and his desire to ensure future generations have the same opportunities that he had.
Humble Beginnings and a Determined Path
Growing up in Gallatown, on the north side of Kirkcaldy, Alan was surrounded by enduring support from his parents who worked tirelessly to provide for him and from his teachers. Teachers who nurtured Alan’s talents and encouraged his pursuit of educational achievement.
His interest in medicine was sparked at a very early age, most likely influenced by his mother’s role in caring for his diabetic grandfather and the regular visits of their family GP. By his first day at primary school, Alan had already set his sights on becoming a doctor, an aspiration that would guide his entire academic and professional journey.
Academic Excellence and the Role of Grants
Alan attended Kirkcaldy High School, a state school which at the time was academically selective. Enjoying his studies, he secured a spot studying Medicine at the one place he was determined to attend, the University of Edinburgh. His path was made possible by a combination of parental and teacher encouragement, hard work and the financial support provided by the Scottish Education Department’s grants available to most students back then, that covered his tuition and living expenses. With this financial support, Alan was able to focus entirely on his studies without the burden of part-time work during the term. He is also grateful still for some small grants from the University for accommodation and later overseas travel.
After obtaining his medical degree, he trained initially in surgery and then specialised in oncology, spending time in both Edinburgh and Kirkcaldy before completing his training in the United States. His expertise in oncology led to a professorial position in Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, where he established a new department of Radiation Oncology at the Alfred Hospital. Eventually, he returned to Scotland, taking on the leadership of the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, where he played a crucial role in modernising cancer treatment services and facilities for the region.
Giving Back: The Importance of Access to Education
Despite his international success, Alan never forgot his roots or the support he received during his education. His commitment to giving back to the University of Edinburgh was solidified when he was approached by the university’s development team about establishing a scholarship for medical students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Recognising that financial constraints deter many capable students from pursuing medicine, Alan, with the support of his husband Peter, made a generous donation to create an Access Scholarship.
His passion for access to education was further reinforced through mentoring would-be medical and dental students at Kirkcaldy High School. He has also been impressed with the initiatives and work of Edinburgh medical students, now young doctors, who set up ‘You Can Be a Doctor’, a Scottish charity which supports students from Scottish state schools in gaining entry to medical school. As a mentor, he witnessed first-hand the challenges these students face and has seen the benefits of such support and advice.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Alan is whole heartedly committed to supporting future generations. Through careful planning, he and Peter have structured their wills to ensure that a significant portion of their estate will go toward funding medical student access scholarships at the University of Edinburgh. This ensures that their legacy will continue to open doors for aspiring doctors who may face financial and social disadvantage, long into the future.
Alan is aware he is not alone in his commitment and is playing only a very small part in supporting students in need. Through regular contact with staff in the University’s Development and Alumni department he is convinced the university sees this as a priority well into the future. He is impressed with the other initiatives the university has developed in a series of programmes of student support such as the Access Edinburgh Scholarships he supports and IntoUniversity, Insights, Education Beyond Borders, the Darlington Scholarships and Global Access. These impressive programmes each address aspects of critical need for some students.
Reflecting on his own journey, Alan firmly believes that education made all the difference for him and should be based on merit and determination, not financial privilege. He suggests we all need a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back and creating opportunities for those who might through their personal circumstances not have the belief that they can achieve their goals.
For Alan, leaving a legacy at the University of Edinburgh is not about philanthropy—it is about doing something to ensure that talented students, regardless of their background, can pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society. His story is one of resilience and generosity. He realised a long time ago that education made all the difference to him and his life and he has an enduring belief in the power of education to change lives.
If you would like to discuss leaving a legacy in your Will to support the University’s work, please visit our website or contact our Head of Legacies and Planned Gifts-Morag Murison at: Morag.Murison@ed.ac.uk
All opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Edinburgh. The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. The University of Edinburgh Development Trust is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC004307