- Recipient of Ernest Edward Scholarship gains Masters in mechanical engineering
- Youssef is one of three young people supported by the Ernest Edward Scholarships
- They are named in memory of the grandfather of prominent businessman Matthew Crummack.
An Aston University student who was given a place on a degree course thanks to a sanctuary scholarship scheme has graduated.
Youssef Said Alhaj Moussa gained a Masters with merit in mechanical engineering and graduated on Thursday 25 July.
He was one of three young people to be given the opportunity to study at Aston University due to a generous donation made by prominent businessperson Matthew Crummack.
Matthew is chief executive of Domestic & General, an alumnus of the University and in April 2024 became Aston University’s new Pro-Chancellor.
He has supported the Ernest Edward Scholarships in memory of his grandfather, Ernest Edward Crummack, who left school aged 12 to work in a coal mine.
The scholarships are available to asylum seekers, the partner or dependant of an asylum seeker or an asylum seeker/refugee/partner/dependant who has been granted discretionary leave to remain (DLR) or some other form of temporary status.
Newly graduated Youssef is planning to use his qualification to work in the sustainability sector. He said: "Receiving the Ernest Edward Scholarship at Aston University was a turning point in my life. It not only funded my education but also opened doors to invaluable learning and research opportunities. I passionately encourage others to pursue such scholarships, as they hold the power to transform your future and open doors to endless possibilities."
Matthew Crummack said “I am thrilled to congratulate Youssef on earning his master’s degree and I wish him every success in his new career. This scholarship has given me the opportunity to support remarkable individuals like Youssef who were not given the chance to fulfil their potential, especially young refugees. This scheme reflects the persistent challenges that asylum seekers face in accessing higher education, and I am optimistic that the new government will create more opportunities to improve access for all, regardless of their background.”
Andrea Muckley senior international student adviser at Aston University added: “These scholarships provide a lifeline to people whose lives are on hold; people who have the ability to contribute so much to society but do not have the means to achieve their dreams alone. Receiving a scholarship can completely turn someone’s life around.
“Youssef has thrived at Aston University and now he wants to use his new skills and education to start his life afresh while helping to make the world a better place. I know he will be successful in his career because I have seen his dedication and tenacity throughout his time at Aston.”
The scholars receive a full tuition fee waiver and up to £25,000 throughout their course to help with living costs. Language assistance is also offered if required, as well as support from Aston University Students’ Union and professional mentoring support.
More information about The Ernest Edward Scholarships is available here.
- Notes to editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Nicola Jones, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7825 342091 or email: n.jones6@aston.ac.uk