Prestigious scholarships for six Donegal students at North West Regional College

Six North West Regional College (NWRC) students from Donegal have received a prestigious SSE Renewables Scholarship to support them in their studies.

Journalism student Jonathan Magee, from Stranorlar, Journalism student Jason LeMasurier, from Buncrana, Media student Noel Cavanagh, from Greencastle, Graphic Design students Joseph Burnett, from Fahan, and Shane McLaughlin, from Redcastle, and Engineering student Mark Killalea, from Ballyshannon, are among 27 students from the college’s five campuses who received a 2026 bursary at a special ceremony.

Dr Catherine O’Mullan, Director of Curriculum and Academic Standards at NWRC, said: “It’s been eight years since our first cohort of Higher Education students received a Scholarship from SSE Renewables. Since then, almost 200 students have been supported in their studies through the scheme. Many of the students have now completed their studies and gone on to successful careers.”

“At NWRC, we are committed to fostering innovation and creativity in the next generation of leaders. The college’s courses offer critical and transferable skills that our students will use beyond their years of study and into future careers. We hope to continue to work in partnership with SSE Renewables as we grow the workforce of the future.”

“Our thanks to SSE Renewables for their continued support to the college’s students who are studying for a future in key technological and creative industries critical for the growth of our economy.”

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Vicky Boden, Senior Community Investment Manager for SSE commented: “We are delighted to again be able to support the students at North West Regional College with the SSE Scholarships.”

“Investing in education is at the heart of SSE’s commitment to local communities in Northern Ireland, and it’s inspiring to see the ambition and potential of the students.”

“Since 2004, the Fund has supported scholarships for over 500 students attending third-level education at Ulster University, South West College and of course at North West Regional College.”

“These scholarships not only ease financial pressures but also empower students to achieve their full potential, contributing to the future growth and prosperity of local communities,” she added.

The SSE Scholarship programme was created to help local students with their student fees and expenses whilst creating a pool of well-trained and experienced professionals, transforming career prospects in regional communities and positively impacting future generations.

SSE is Northern Ireland’s largest renewable energy generator. Their scholarship fund supports students living close to the company’s wind farms in Tyrone, Derry-Londonderry, Fermanagh, and County Donegal and provides 50% funding support (up to £2500 per student) towards the cost of third-level fees for recipients commencing first-year studies in STEAM-associated subjects at partner colleges.