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2 Feb 2010 15:52:06
University of Bedfordshire students and graduates are set to benefit from awards worth thousands of pounds - thanks to the generosity of Luton entrepreneur Jan Telensky.
Mr Telensky, chairman and chief executive of SkillsTrain, has joined forces with the University by donating £30,000 to launch two awards.
The Graduate Of The Year Award (GOYA), worth £15,000, will be presented to an alumnus of the Department of Computer Science and Technology who is deemed to have made the most impact on business in five years. There will be a runners-up prize of £7,500.
The Student Advancement Reward (STAR), worth £5,000, will be presented to a current Computer Science and Technology student who has made the most progress during the year. A runners-up award of £2,500 will also be presented.
The awards will be judged by a panel made up of University staff and chaired by Mr Telensky and will be presented at graduation ceremonies this summer.
University of Bedfordshire Vice Chancellor Professor Les Ebdon, CBE, said: “The University is thrilled to launch these awards and is delighted that through Mr Telensky’s generosity our students and alumni will benefit.
“We value our links with Mr Telensky who has been a keen supporter of the University for many years and an inspiring example of what you can achieve in the business world if you have drive and determination.”
Mr Telensky came to the UK from the former Czechoslovakia in 1969. He now owns SkillsTrain, the largest IT training organisation in Europe, as well as other businesses including AquaCity in Slovakia.
He said: “Since setting up my business headquarters in Luton I have become involved with the University. It is a place which prepares people for the world of work and encourages business enterprise which is so important for the future prosperity of this country.
“That is why I am promoting the GOYA and STAR prizes, to recognise determination and business talent in those who have graduated and those students who are currently attending the University.
“But the prizes are also about giving back to the University as the prize winners will receive half of the prize money with the other half being donated to an area of support of their choosing within the University.”
For more information about the awards click here.
Some 15 students from Slovakia are currently benefiting from Mr Telensky’s generosity through special annual scholarships.
Latest news» 2010» February» Students and graduates set to benefit - thanks to Luton entrepreneur
