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A peatland science professor based in Thurso has been recognised for playing a vital role in upskilling individuals on climate goals through peatland restoration.
UHI North, West and Hebrides celebrated a night of success at the prestigious 2025 College Development Network (CDN) College Awards winning one overall category and taking home several further commendations.
Winning the overall category on the night, the Innovation and Research Award was presented to Professor Roxane Andersen and the Environmental Research Institute team for its “For Peat’s Sake” project, in collaboration NatureScot’s Peatland Action.
The CDN College Awards, one of Scotland’s leading celebrations of innovation in further education, received a record 199 submissions for awards this year.
The college’s Digital Student Ambassador Programme, an initiative designed to empower students to create digital content about their experiences living and studying in rural and island locations, received a commendation in the Marketing and Communications category.
This initiative provides students with valuable skills, a paid living wage, and a unique opportunity to showcase the benefits of studying in the Highlands and Islands.
Adam Hutchison, a music student from Fort William, was commended in the Student of the Year category.
Adam, who has cerebral palsy, has overcome significant challenges to thrive in his NC Music/DJing with Sound Production course.
From performing live across Lochaber to DJing at his local McDonald’s, Adam’s resilience, determination, and creativity make him an inspiration to his peers. He is now progressing to an HNC Music course at UHI.
UHI North, West and Hebrides was also part of a joint submission with other colleges for the Employer Connections Award.
The submission recognised the successful delivery of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Scotland Academy pilot course.
“The college’s Fort William campus, represented by Martin Johnston, a lecturer in civil engineering, played an integral role in developing this key industry partnership.
Lydia Rohmer, Principal and Chief Executive of UHI North, West and Hebrides, expressed her pride in the college’s achievements:
“These awards highlight the incredible work being done by our staff and students, and we are extremely proud to see our efforts recognised at such a high level. Despite the challenges facing the sector, UHI North, West and Hebrides continues to lead with innovation and a commitment to quality education.
“I would like to congratulate everyone involved, especially our student Adam Hutchison, who truly embodies the spirit of our college with his determination and creativity. His success is an inspiration to us all.”
The college also celebrated the achievements of other UHI partner colleges and all the finalists, whose work across Scotland’s further education sector was honoured during the event.
