Aberdeen’s largest student scholarship programme was unveiled today by Talisman Energy (UK) Limited to the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University (RGU).
Talisman will provide financial support totalling almost £800,000 for students at both universities during the next decade, as part of the ambitious project.
"Although the energy sector is vital to the ongoing economic success of the world, general industry training and recruitment has not kept pace with its needs," said Dr. Jim Buckee, President and Chief Executive Officer, Talisman Energy Inc. "Surging demand for energy coupled with the need for new, properly qualified entrants means that career opportunities in the energy sector are particularly favourable. These scholarships represent a long-term investment in our youth and will help to foster high level study, leading to careers in a challenging and rewarding industry which increasingly requires innovation and advanced technology."
Dr. Jim Buckee continued: “This is an exciting opportunity for Talisman to play its part in supporting education in the city. Talisman has worked in partnership with RGU and the University of Aberdeen to develop this scholarship programme, which we are confident, will be of benefit to both the academic and oil and gas sectors. We take our commitment to helping students achieve their potential seriously and as such, we believe this significant investment in Aberdeen’s universities will help foster excellence among those who aim to forge a career in the oil and gas sector. ”
Professor Duncan Rice Principal of the University of Aberdeen said: “We wholeheartedly welcome Talisman’s scholarship programme. It will enable some of our most able students to concentrate on their studies without many of the financial worries that can sometimes accompany university life.
“The scholarship scheme has been specifically geared towards attracting those students who may wish to pursue a career in the oil and gas industry. This will in turn encourage more students to remain in Aberdeen and contribute to the city’s economy once they have completed their course.”
Professor Mike Pittilo, Principal and Vice Chancellor of RGU said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity of working with Talisman. It is fantastic to see international companies such as Talisman take an interest in encouraging and supporting students in Aberdeen.
“The possibility of a scholarship is a great incentive for promising students who can sometimes be put off applying for a place at university because of the costs involved. Talisman’s scholarship scheme is one way of helping youngsters access the many opportunities that a university qualification can offer.”
Scholarships worth a total of £47,000 will be awarded annually to students at RGU for the next ten years. These will comprise a mix of engineering undergraduate, engineering post graduate and business school undergraduate awards.
The University of Aberdeen will receive an annual scholarship package worth £50,000 for the next six years. This includes entry-level undergraduate, specialist undergraduate, enhanced and post graduate scholarships in Engineering including Safety Engineering, Geoscience, Environmental Sciences and Chemistry.
The scholarships will support students throughout their studies with possible internships at Talisman also being offered, depending on academic performance.
This scholarship program represents just one of Talisman's many community involvement activities across the world, and is a component of the Company’s strategic commitment to youth and education. As part of this commitment, Talisman Energy Inc. also recently established major scholarships at the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta. More information about this program and other Talisman community involvement activities can be found at www.talisman-energy.com