Open University in Scotland Celebrates 50th Anniversary at Degree Ceremony

The Open University (OU) in Scotland is marking a historic milestone today as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of its first-ever degree ceremony in Scotland, which took place in Edinburgh in 1974.

This year’s event will see 660 graduates cross the stage at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, showcasing the university’s continued commitment to accessible and inclusive education. 

In 1974, the first ceremony saw 270 graduates gather at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh, presided over by the OU's first Vice-Chancellor, Lord Walter Perry, who hailed from Dundee. Fast forward to 2024, the OU has expanded its reach considerably, now boasting over 200,000 alumni across Scotland. 

Celebrating decades of educational innovation 

This year’s ceremony not only celebrates the personal success stories of its graduates but also over 50 years of educational innovation and community impact that The Open University has been having as Scotland’s widening access university, ensuring opportunities are available to all; regardless of age, income, location and background and with no requirement for entry qualifications for most courses. 

Among the graduates crossing the stage this year, 170 (25%) have declared a disability, 340 (50%) are the first in their families to pursue higher education, and 380 students (60%) benefitted from part-time fee grants which cover the costs of study.  

Inspiring graduate stories 

The diversity of the graduating class spans all ages, with the youngest graduate, Alana Taylor, being just 20 years old and the oldest, Elizabeth ‘Lida’ Newell, aged 84 (pictured below).  

Alana, who graduates with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) Psychology degree after joining the OU in 2020 with National 5 qualifications, comments:

“I dropped out of school at 16 as I am autistic and struggled with the school environment. I chose to study at home as this was the best option for me due to being autistic. I was able to take on other responsibilities while studying; pushing for my autism diagnosis, attending therapy, and providing support at home as my mum is a single parent to me.”  

Lida, who returned to education while caring for her late husband and has now achieved her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Open Degree, adds:

“I had wanted to go to university when I was a teenager but my father died when I was 16 and I had to change direction to help my mum financially. Having been away from education for 60 years, I thought it would be wise to do an access course and was amazed to receive a Distinction. This gave me the confidence to go ahead with my degree and I have thoroughly enjoyed the studying.”  

Opening up opportunities, all over Scotland 

The graduates attending this year’s ceremony come from all corners of Scotland, from Shetland in the north to Stranraer in the south, reflecting the Open University's nationwide reach and commitment to supporting students in even the most remote areas. 

Council link worker and mum-of-three Claire Rowley, from Stoneykirk in Dumfries and Galloway, is the most southerly graduate to cross the stage this year, collecting her  Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Education Studies (Primary). She says: “As a full-time mum with three children, I was unable to attend a campus university. Studying has given me the opportunity to progress in my chosen career. I really love my job and am excited for the possibilities in the future.”  

Landmark event 

Director of the OU in Scotland, Susan Stewart, reflected on the significance of the event:

"It’s a momentous occasion for The Open University in Scotland, celebrating 50 years of changing lives through education. Our graduates, many of whom are balancing studies with work, family, and other commitments, demonstrate incredible resilience and determination. We are immensely proud of their achievements and delighted to celebrate alongside them.” 

At the degree ceremony, international model and cultural icon Eunice Olumide (pictured right) also receives an honorary degree from The Open University for her outstanding contributions to British arts, culture, and social justice. 

25 October 2024