Members' Business — S6M-12165 David Torrance: Celebrating 125 Years of Learning with Fife College

That the Parliament celebrates the 125th anniversary of Fife College, the first ever college to be set up in Fife following the opening of the Lauder Technical College in 1899; understands that local politician and businessman, George Lauder, established the college with funding from his nephew, the famous industrialist, Andrew Carnegie; believes that, for 125 years, the provision of college education in Fife has offered opportunities for thousands of students and benefited the people, communities, and businesses of the area; further believes that the 125th anniversary will be celebrated through a series of special events and initiatives, each of which will pay tribute to what it sees as the incredible legacy of those who laid the groundwork for the success of Fife College all those years ago; notes the launch of a new 125th anniversary scholarship programme to "empower and support" students in their educational journey, while the college builds upon its relationships with institutions in the USA as it aims to explore mutually beneficial opportunities and continue the legacy of its founding benefactors; welcomes the series of events planned for across Fife, which will highlight its alumni programme to celebrate the achievements of former students who have since gone on to make their mark across the globe; further notes the planned revival of the annual Lauder Lecture, coinciding with the college’s birthday in October 2024; considers that the event will serve as a platform for thought leaders to share insights and knowledge, embodying the spirit of George Lauder's commitment to education; understands that the aims of the college remain the same today as they did 125 years ago, and that they are to provide opportunity for all, to deliver outstanding education and training, to contribute to the economic prosperity of the region and its communities, and to help students, staff and the communities that it serves to be the best that they can be; commends what it sees as the hard work and dedication of all staff, past and present, and wishes everyone at Fife College a bright future.