MCALPINE WELCOMES SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT CONTRIBUTION OF £60K FOR LOCKERBIE STUDENTS TO STUDY AT SYRACUSE

South of Scotland MSP Joan McAlpine has welcomed an announcement by the First Minister that the Lockerbie Syracuse Scholarship programme is to receive a £60K funding boost from the Scottish Government.
 
Alex Salmond made the announcement during First Minister’s Questions on Thursday.
 
Each year, two students are given the opportunity to study at Syracuse University.  The scholarship was created in memory of those who lost their lives, both in Lockerbie and from Syracuse University in the 1988 Lockerbie Air Disaster.
 
The First Minister said:
 
“The exchange scheme between Lockerbie and Syracuse University – who lost 35 students in the tragedy – has allowed the communities in Scotland and America to come closer together and look to the future with hope and expectation.
 
“I can confirm that the Scottish Government will make a contribution of £60,000 towards the fund that allows Lockerbie students to study at the university in the United States.”
 
Ms McAlpine said:
 
“This extra £60k will be a tremendous boost for Lockerbie Academy pupils who want to take the opportunity to spend time at one of America’s leading universities.
 
It is vital that we take time to grieve for the victims of the bombing and show solidarity with their families at this time.
 
“However it is also important to remember the many good things happening in Lockerbie and the inspirational spirit of the people there.
 
“This is a positive, forward looking way for the Scottish Government to pay tribute to the victims as the 25th anniversary of the Air Disaster approaches.”