Gabriel Aitonje Memorial Scholarship

The Gabriel Aitonje Memorial Scholarship has been created in memory of alumnus Gabriel Aitonje, who tragically and unexpectedly passed away in September 2021 when he was just 22 years of age. Gabriel was a Politics and International Relations student who graduated from the Penryn campus in 2020 and during his time at the University, Gabriel left a huge impression on colleagues and peers alike. This scholarship celebrates his legacy and in the words of his family:

“Gabriel was a loving son, caring older brother and a much missed friend to so many. Funny, thoughtful and with such remarkable intelligence from such a young age, we can only imagine what he would have gone on to achieve and the positive impact he would have had. We will forever miss his enormous presence.

Gabriel was a humanitarian at heart, he was most interested in helping those who had the least in society. He demonstrated this by attending rallies for causes he was passionate about, he regularly donated blood during the pandemic, gave to the homeless and he was also registered as a bone marrow donor.

We hope that the Gabriel Aitonje Memorial Scholarship will allow those who are disadvantaged to have the opportunity to realise their potential and fulfil their dreams.”

“The commitment of breaking the glass ceiling and making education as accessible as possible is something that is incredibly admirable and something I care deeply about”
(Gabriel Aitonje, 2021)

Entry requirements

In order to be eligible to apply for the Gabriel Aitonje Memorial Scholarship you must meet the following criteria:

1. Be from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background.

2. Be assessed as a Home student for fee-paying purposes.

3. Have applied for one of the following programmes:

• MSc Social Data Science
• MSc Public Policy
• MA Conflict, Security and Development
• MA International Development
• MA International Relations
• MA Social & Political Theory
• MRes Social Science Research

Please note we will also look favourably on those from a disadvantaged socio-economic background and/or those with a disability.

Please note at the end of their studies, successful applicants will be required to provide a brief profile and an update of their intended graduate destination/employment which may be used in web content. 

How to apply

To apply you will need to complete an online application form here including uploading a statement of no more than 300 words detailing why you would be the best recipient of this scholarship, relating your reasons back to the eligibility criteria.

Summary