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The final Winter Graduation ceremonies of 2022 took place this week, bringing the curtain down on another successful year.
More than 3000 students across the University's global campuses in Malaysia, Dubai and Scotland were presented with their new academic qualifications after years of hard work and study.
They then automatically enrolled into one of the oldest alumni associations in the UK, The Watt Club, joining the ranks of a global network of around 152,000 others.
It has been hugely enjoyable to attend our Winter Graduations across our global campuses and to recognise the hard work and commitment shown by each of our graduates.
The Winter Graduation programme ran over three weeks and celebrated the success of students from across the University's schools and specialist disciplines.
It began in Malaysia, where Her Royal Highness, Tengku Puteri Raja Tengku Puteri Iman Afzan binti Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, was conferred with an Honorary Degree in recognition of her work in championing mental health in Malaysia and beyond, and for her leadership skills.
Provost and Chief Executive Officer at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, said: “Our graduation ceremonies are always one of the main highlights for us as at Heriot-Watt University. We are a global leader in purpose-led education. Our students are empowered to hone their leadership skills by participating in the EmPOWER programme, where they discover their purpose, and work on practical projects that have a positive impact on the world.”
Dubai marked the next stop on the graduation programme. More than 500 students graduated from the University, including six Zambian women who earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) through the fully funded scholarship, co-sponsored by the Scottish Government.
The ceremonies were held at the Intercontinental hotel in the heart of Dubai and were attended by Dubai's new Pro-Chancellor, Dr Raja Al Gurg.
Professor Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, said: “Graduations are a special time as we honour our students' journey, hard work, and accomplishments. This year's celebrations also coincided with the appointment of the first-ever Pro-Chancellor of the Dubai campus, Dr Raja Al Gurg, one of UAE's most distinguished and accomplished businesswomen.
“Dr Raja will now be an integral part of the University's growth here and help us build on our success in the region. As our graduates chart their next steps, we are excited to see what the future holds for them, and we wish them the very best of luck!”
The Winter Graduations concluded at Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh campus on Tuesday December 6.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Heriot-Watt, said: “It has been hugely enjoyable to attend our Winter Graduations across our global campuses and to recognise the hard work and commitment shown by each of our graduates.
“Not only has this been an opportunity to celebrate their achievements but to reflect on the unique challenges our graduates have had to overcome because of the pandemic.
“I'm deeply proud of each student and of what they have achieved during their time with us. They leave this University with the confidence, skills and ability to succeed. I wish them well in their chosen careers and I hope they stay connected with us and become active members of the Watt Club."