Glasgow Uni to benefit from RBS cash
Glasgow University's John Smith Centre for Public Service is going to be among the first benificiaries from a £7 million fund set by by the Royal Bank of Scotland to support community projects ahead of its 300th anniversary in 2027.
Welcoming the fund, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "The passion and enthusiasm that we have seen in recent years from the younger generation for politics and vital issues like climate change - subjects previously deemed to be too complex or uninteresting for them to engage with - has been hugely inspiring.
"I am proud that our young people have a desire to make the world we live in a better place and are willing to take action, whether that is engaging politically or with specific campaigns close to their hearts.
"This programme is an exciting new way for young people to engage with the world they live in.''
RBS said the 300 Fund will focus on areas "key to the Scottish economy including climate change, enterprise and financial capability''.
It will offer 300 young people, aged 17-27, a place on a 12-month programme which will include a 70-hour paid internship with a politician, business or non-governmental organisation.
Former Scottish Labour chief Kezia Dugdale is director of the John Smith Centre, which is named after the former MP and leader of the Labour Party.
She said the programme will "build on John Smith's legacy'' by placing politics and public service at its heart, encouraging people to promote civilised debate and pursue positive change in their communities''.
She added: "By supporting those who have the interest and passion to enter politics, but not necessarily the access or means, we can deliver transformational change for Scotland in the future.''
Malcolm Buchanan, chairman of the Royal Bank of Scotland board, said: "With our 300th anniversary on the horizon we feel the time is right to launch the Royal Bank 300 Fund to help the Scottish economy face the challenges and opportunities ahead in areas such as climate change, enterprise and financial capability.''