Sir Alex Ferguson launches new university scholarship

Dr Murray Rowden, Sir Alex Ferguson and chancellor Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon at the launch event on Monday

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has joined forces with a leading businessman to launch a scholarship scheme for disadvantaged students.

Sir Alex and Dr Murray Rowden have together pledged £500,000 to fund the education of 150 undergraduates at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU).

The announcement comes as the university celebrates 150 years since the establishment of its founding institution, the Glasgow School of Cookery, in 1875.

Sir Alex said the "extraordinary initiative", which also provides mentoring, would help open doors for the next generation.

The scheme was announced during an anniversary event on the university's city centre campus.

Hosted by chancellor Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon, it brought together supporters and honorary graduates including actress Blythe Duff and former BBC Reporting Scotland presenter Sally Magnusson.

Sir Alex, who also managed Aberdeen and led Scotland in the 1986 World Cup, said: "I've witnessed first-hand the life-changing impact that scholarships, travel awards, and mentorship can have on young people.

"Bringing all of 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."

Sir Alex brought many players through the youth ranks during his 27-year career at Manchester United. They included (L-R) Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, Gary Neville, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Phil Neville

Ferguson's finest hour as Manchester United manager came in 1999, when he led a team with a core of former Old Trafford youth players to win the Premiership, FA Cup and Champions League.

He added: "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."

Sir Alex launched the GCU Foundation in 2015 with a landmark £500,000 founding gift.

Since then he has helped raise more than £11m for disadvantaged students to fund scholarships, awards and career-shaping opportunities.

Sir Alex was joined at the event by Dr Murray Rowden, global head of infrastructure at project management firm Turner & Townsend.

Dr Rowden, who graduated from GCU in 1990, said the university had "played a pivotal role in shaping both my career and my values".

He added: "The education I received, and the support I was given, opened doors I never imagined possible.

"Backing this campaign is my way of giving back to ensure that future students, regardless of their circumstances, have the same chance to succeed and make a difference.

"I'm proud to stand with GCU in building a legacy of opportunity and inclusion."

'Profoundly grateful'

The campaign is a direct response to the growing numbers - 75% in 2025/26 - of care-experienced and estranged students joining GCU.

Many experienced chaotic upbringings, abuse, addiction and homelessness.

Through the initiative, each student will benefit from a financial bursary to ease money pressures, guaranteed access to a mentor, access to an internship bursar and a guaranteed travel award.

Jill Watt, director of advancement and communications, said GCU was "profoundly grateful" to Sir Alex and Dr Rowden.

She added: "The anniversary scholarships will alleviate financial hardship and dismantle social barriers.

"As we mark 150 years since our founding, this initiative reflects our enduring commitment to access, equality, and inclusion, values we will celebrate throughout the academic year."

The Glasgow School of Cookery was created in 1875 to educate young working-class women and improve family life.

GCU was formally created in 1993 and its anniversary celebrations will run to August.