GCU announced as a finalist for Herald Higher Education Awards 2026

Glasgow Caledonian University has been announced as a finalist in two categories in this year’s Herald Higher Education Awards – Outstanding Business Engagement in Universities and Outstanding Contribution from a University Student.

Run by The Herald newspaper, the prestigious awards celebrate the extraordinary work being carried out in universities and colleges across Scotland and recognise outstanding students.

The finalists, announced in the Herald today, have been selected from a record-beating 200 entries from across Scotland, and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at DoubleTree by Hilton in Glasgow on 20 May.

GCU’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Mairi Watson said: "I’m delighted that we have been shortlisted for both the Outstanding Student Contribution Award and the Business Partnership Award with Turner & Townsend. This recognition reflects the remarkable contribution our students make in communities across the city and highlights the value of strong, collaborative partnerships in creating opportunities that benefit our students, our partners and the wider economy."

Glasgow Caledonian’s shortlisted entries are:

Turner & Townsend - Outstanding Business Engagement in Universities

Turner & Townsend has been recognised for its generous support for our sector‑leading 150th Anniversary Scholarship Campaign which was launched in response to a significant rise in scholarship applications from care‑experienced and estranged students.

Alongside the University’s Founding Donor, Sir Alex Ferguson CBE, the campaign was championed by our alumni and Turner & Townsend's leaders, Dr Murray Rowden, Global Head of Infrastructure, and Peter McGettrick, UK Operations Lead. Their leadership and advocacy were instrumental in designing the scholarship and mobilising wider support.

Turner & Townsend were the campaign’s first corporate partner, investing £82,500 to fund 10 multi‑year scholarships for students in our School of Science and Engineering and Glasgow School for Business and Society. Turner & Townsend's support also extends beyond funding, offering mentoring, employability workshops and access to professional networks.

Beneficiaries of the scholarships are already reporting increased confidence, reduced financial stress, and a sense of belonging. The University’s very first Anniversary Scholar described the support as “life‑changing” and “like having a parental figure, that’s willing you to succeed”.

Nayma Sheikh - Outstanding Contribution from a University Student

Nayma, who is studying Accountancy, is one of the most exciting emerging talents in Scottish cricket. In 2023, Nayma made her debut for the Scotland Women’s National Cricket Team and has gone on to represent Scotland in two Women’s World Cup Qualifiers as well as another Under-19 World Cup in early 2025.

Building on support received by the University’s Magnusson Awards, Nayma is now helping other  young women and girls to play cricket. She founded the N4 Cricket Academy, a grassroots initiative coaching girls who might otherwise leave the sport due to financial barriers, limited facilities, or an absence of women coaches. In addition, N4 offers confidence-building workshops, nutrition and wellbeing sessions and a safe and empowering environment.