A SCOTTISH university has abolished graduation fees after pressure from students.
Starthclyde University previously charged £35 for students to go to their gradution ceremony and £20 for those not wishing to attend to graduate.
However, the fees have been scrapped after discussions with Strathclyde Student’s Union and the Student Experience Committee.
An informal poll conducted by the union found more than 1,200 students who wanted the fees abolished.
Matt Crilly, president of the union, said: "After years of studying, everyone should be able to enjoy their graduation regardless of their financial situation.
“This will go a long way in helping students, and the Student Union will still be supporting students who struggle with the cost of gown hire. I thank the university for listening to the student voice.”
Professor Sara Carter, an associate principal with the university, said officials had become aware of concerns over the charges.
She said: "I am delighted the university has agreed to remove both the £20 fee to graduate in absentia and the £35 ceremony attendance fee with immediate effect, ensuring that students graduating in summer 2019 will be able to benefit.”
The move widens existing support for students facing hardship to cover the whole student population.
Glasgow University scrapped its fees last year after an outcry from students.
NUS Scotland President Liam McCabe welcomed the latest move.
He said: "I am delighted the Strathclyde students' association have won their battle and convinced the university to scrap all graduation fees for their students.
“The association has corrected a financial injustice which sought to penalise students for their academic success. Strathclyde students will now be free to graduate, without financial barriers."
Mr McCabe called on all other institutions to listen to students and remove "unjustifiable charges" for graduations.
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