1,000 lives changed: Manchester Met’s First Generation Scholarship Programme hits major milestone

More than 1,000 students from across the North West – each the first in their families to attend university – have benefited from a transformative scholarship to realise their potential.

Manchester Metropolitan University’s First Generation Scholarship Programme supports talented students, many of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds, who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to pursue higher education.

Launched in 2016, the life-changing programme has now supported over 1,000 scholars and recently reached its initial £2 million fundraising target, thanks to the generosity of donors, alumni, and supporters. 

The initiative is increasing social mobility by widening participation and ensuring that everyone with the potential to benefit from university education can do so, regardless of background.

Professor Malcolm Press CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “Seeing the 1,000th student from our transformational First Generation Programme marks a major milestone in this pioneering initiative that is transforming lives and ensuring people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to access higher education and fulfil their potential.

“By 2035, it is estimated that 88% of new jobs will require graduate level skills. The critical role that we play here should not be underestimated:  it’s simple – there’s no growth without graduates.

“The success of the programme is thanks to the commitment of our students but also to the generosity of our donors who continue to help to fund the scholarships that create opportunities and help level the playing field for these young people. 

“Talent is everywhere; opportunity must be too.”

Shuab Gamote is a researcher and writer who graduated from Manchester Met with a first-class BA (Hons) in Accounting and Finance in 2022. 

He said: “The First Generation Scholarship Programme was an invaluable source of support and opportunities, helping me grow and develop as a student at Manchester Met. I’m delighted to celebrate welcoming the 1,000th scholar, a tremendous achievement which the University community should be very proud.”

Jessica Berry also graduated from the programme in 2022 with a BSc Psychology and now works as an Assistant Psychologist at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. 

She said: “I think I knew I wanted to go to university, but I didn’t know if it was possible. I found out about First Generation from a friend, and after I attended a taster session for the programme, I knew I was going to apply because I met so many other people going through the same as me.”

The programme supports students from pre-enrolment through to graduation and beyond, creating a lasting alumni network. 

In addition to a cash bursary to help meet the cost of study, every scholar can benefit from enhanced employability and pastoral support. The programme provides a support network, mentorship and connection, and aims to give students the self-belief to know that university is a place where they will be accepted, thrive, and find the confidence to follow their ambitions.

Vanda Murray OBE, Founding Donor of the programme and former Chair of the Board of Governors said: “Being part of First Generation from its inception has been one of the most meaningful commitments I’ve ever made. Seeing these students succeed in their studies and beyond is a compelling reminder of what’s possible when we believe in their potential.

“We’ve already opened the doors to higher education for 1,000 talented individuals. Now, with that momentum behind us, I truly believe we can go even further. Every gift makes a difference, and every student deserves a chance.”

Manchester Met’s First Generation scholars have higher progression rates from year 1 to year 2 than their peers, and 80% of graduates from the programme achieve good honours.

Manchester Met is expanding the programme to ensure everyone with the potential to benefit from university education has the chance to, aiming to increase the number of scholarships awarded to 200 per annum. 

To learn more or to donate, visit the First Generation Scholarship Programme page.