Ulster University’s long-term relationship with Santander Universities is extending once again, with the signing of a further three-year partnership.
The partnership between Ulster University and Santander Universities began in 2011, and to date, has benefitted more than 2,500 students and provided £1.4m in funding to support education, enterprise and employability initiatives.
Santander Universities has 75 partner universities in the UK and is one of Ulster University’s most significant corporate donors, with the longstanding relationship having developed into a strategic partnership that aims to deliver sustainable futures for all.
The next three years will support initiatives such as:
- Mobility grants for students to enhance their employability through travel experiences such as conferences and study visits;
- Enterprise development including capitalisation grants for student entrepreneurs;
- Individual scholarships to reduce financial barriers to higher education.
All Ulster University students and graduates are also invited to apply throughout the year to take part in the wide range of online Global Programmes offered through the Santander Scholarships platform, which aim to boost personal and professional development.
Speaking about the strategic partnership, Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor at Ulster University said:
"Ulster University is delighted to be working with Santander Universities UK on another much-valued three-year partnership. The activities this funding enables will continue to enhance our students’ higher education experience and will have a long-term impact on their success. Over the last 12 years, thousands of our students have significantly benefitted from the initiatives made possible by Santander Universities, and we are grateful for their continued support.”
Director of Santander Universities UK, Matt Hutnell, added:
“At Santander Universities we believe education is today’s solution to a better tomorrow. We’re proud to continue our partnership with Ulster University and provide even more opportunities for students, staff, and the local community to develop skills to build a brighter future and achieve their future potential.”
Sohaila Pourjalali, who is in her first year studying Graphic Design at Ulster University, visited London earlier this year thanks to support from Santander Universities. Sohalia said:
"This programme was the best experience of my life. Before this trip I was quite unfocused as it is hard to visualise your future at such a young age. Having the opportunity to speak with employers I have idolised, and tour design studios was amazing. All the employers on the trip have since kept in contact and I have an opportunity to gain a job from this. I couldn't be more thankful."
Ulster University’s local and global corporate partners play a crucial role in transforming lives and communities through scholarships, sponsorship, industry and research partnerships, and strategic corporate giving.
If you’re interested in finding out more about how Ulster University is a partner with and for business, visit: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/business