Cornish degree ceremony marked with pasties and cream teas

More than 600 people who have studied at the University of Exeter’s Penryn and Truro Campuses were awarded their degrees on Monday and Tuesday.

The event also celebrated the induction of global mining company Centamin PLC, into the university’s College of Benefactors. Induction into the College is the highest honour the University of Exeter can bestow upon its donors, and Centamin was recognised for the outstanding support of Mining students at the Camborne School of Mines (CSM).

In June 2018 the company was the founding donor of a scholarship fund named in honour of a former CSM graduate and Centamin employee, Richard Osman, who passed away in 2016.

The scholarship, which also includes contributions from Richard’s friends and colleagues, will support 40 Richard Osman Scholars over the next 20 years. Each year two talented CSM students studying MSc Mining and Geology will receive a bursary covering their tuition fees in full as well as a significant contribution to living costs. The first scholar, Scott Campbell, has just graduated and the second year’s successful applicants are soon to be announced.

Centamin PLC is a mineral exploration, development and mining company established in Australia in 1970 and operating in Australia, Jersey, Egypt, Burkina Faso and Cote d'Ivoire. Accepting the honour on the company’s behalf was Chief Executive Officer Andrew Pardey. While working with Centamin PLC in Egypt Richard was one of the main driving forces behind the Geology and Mining department that that led the Sukari gold mine to become among the most productive in the world.

Professor Kip Jeffrey, Head of Camborne School of Mines, said: “We are very proud these scholarships play a part in remembering Richard, who was a genuinely lovely man. He was dedicated to his work and committed to his friends and family.

“The Richard Osman Scholars help talented individuals who struggle to fund fees and maintenance costs. Currently there are very few bursaries available. These full scholarships will ensure that the very best students are able to achieve their potential and pursue an international career in mining.”

Students and their family and friends attended graduation ceremonies at Truro Cathedral before celebrating in the sunshine at garden parties at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus.

Professor Janice Kay, Provost of the University of Exeter, said: “Graduation is a special moment for students and their families, and we always enjoy celebrating with them and wishing them well for the future.”