Dr Murray Rowden and Sir Alex Ferguson have launched a £500,000 scholarship campaign at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Both have donated £250,000 to fund 150 new scholarships, which form the centrepiece of GCU’s 150th anniversary campaign. The initiative will provide financial, mentoring, and career support to help students overcome barriers to higher education and unlock their potential.
Dr Rowden, global head of infrastructure at Turner & Townsend and a GCU graduate and honorary graduate, said, “Glasgow Caledonian University has played a pivotal role in shaping both my career and my values. The education I received opened doors I never imagined possible. Backing this campaign is my way of giving back − and of investing in the next generation of talent, ensuring that opportunity and inclusion are built into the foundations of our future.”
Dr Rowden’s involvement continues his long-standing advocacy for change across the built environment, where he has championed skills development, diversity and innovation as essential to driving better outcomes for communities and industry alike.
Through the Campaign, GCU will establish 150 new scholarships with each student benefiting from:
- Financial bursary to ease money pressures
- Guaranteed access to a mentor throughout their time at university
- Access to an internship bursary
- Guaranteed travel award.
The announcement comes as the University celebrates 150 years since the establishment of its founding institution, the Glasgow School of Cookery, in 1875. The new scholarships reflect GCU’s heritage of social purpose and widening access to higher education for people from disadvantaged backgrounds. The University will mark the anniversary with a programme of activity culminating in August 2026.
Sir Alex Ferguson CBE, founding donor of the GCU Foundation, added, “I’ve witnessed first-hand the life-changing impact that scholarships, travel awards, and mentorship can have on young people. Bringing all this support together in one unique package will give students not only the financial means, but the confidence and encouragement they need to truly excel. Giving young people a start in life is one of the greatest gifts we can offer, and one that has brought me immense pride and joy over the years. I hope others will join me in backing this extraordinary initiative and help open doors for the next generation to thrive.”
Anyone interested in supporting GCU 150 anniversary campaign can contact foundation@gcu.ac.uk
