Celebrating Open University Students’ Achievements 2026

That the Parliament congratulates the Open University (OU) in Scotland on holding degree-awarding ceremonies at the Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow, on 22 and 23 October 2026; understands that the OU in Scotland has over 200,000 alumni; recognises the hard work and sacrifices of the almost 1,000 students participating in the ceremonies; further recognises the support provided, and sacrifices made, by their families during their studies; notes that 32% of the participating students reported having a disability, 48% are the first in their family to study at higher education level and 64% were in receipt of the Part-Time Fee Grant; understands that the youngest graduate is aged 19 and the oldest is aged 88; commends the OU for its geographical reach, with students graduating from as far north as Shetland and as far south as Stranraer, and wishes all celebrating students every success for the future.