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A leading Scottish university has signed up a commercial sponsor for its graduation ceremonies this year in what is believed to be the first such deal in the academic world.The Royal Bank of Scotland, through its local corporate office in Dundee, has agreed to support the University of Dundee's graduation ceremonies which take place on 8, 9 and 12 July.
Some 2,000 students will cross the stage at the Caird Hall, Dundee in a series of ceremonies attended by friends, family and other guests and followed by the traditional celebratory garden parties on campus, marking the completion of their student years.
Principal of the University Dr Ian Graham-Bryce commented: "Government funding strictures mean universities are having to be ever more innovative and commercially-minded in meeting the costs of running higher education establishments. As the number of students increases year on year, the costs also increase. We appreciate this generous gesture from the bankers to the University - the Dundee corporate office of The Royal Bank of Scotland - with whom we enjoy a warm relationship. It is through public spirited acts such as this one that communities such as Dundee derive great strength. "
Commenting on the involvement of the bank Mr Roddy Reid local director said: "The world of banking is all about relationships and The Royal Bank of Scotland in Dundee is delighted to be consolidating and strengthening its long standing association with The University of Dundee through this involvement. The University of Dundee is a leading educational establishment with a worldwide reputation for excellence and it is through our long association with the University that we have built up a genuine insight into the specific needs and requirements of the education sector. Our involvement with the graduation ceremonies merely reinforces our commitment to the relationship and highlights our desire to support excellence in the city of Dundee."
Sir George Mathewson, chief executive of The Royal Bank of Scotland is a graduate of the University of Dundee./ends
Note for editors
As a result of the agreement The Royal Bank of Scotland logo will appear alongside the University on banners, graduation T-shirts, and within the graduation booklet with a strapline "Congratulations to the Class of '99 from The Royal Bank of Scotland in Dundee".
Royal Bank of Scotland contact:
Cameron Walker,
Public Relations Manager
0171 427 9111 or 07771 942307
