National award for Greenwich student

University of Greenwich student, Vipin Dhunnoo, has received national recognition for his work with local youngsters at the national Aimhigher aards.

Architecture student, Vipin Dhunnoo, who has now graduated from Greenwich was one of only three national winners in the Aimhigher Associates category. He worked as a mentor at Bexley Business Academy, Eltham Hill and Blackfen Schools.

The Aimhigher Associates scheme creates long-term links between young people of school age and university students from a similar background, who can give them the benefit of their experience as they make important decisions about their future. Vipin is one of 1,265 students from across the country who took part.

Aspire Aimhigher Southeast London was one of 17 areas in England to pilot the scheme last year, and following its success, is now to be rolled out nationwide – the first time a programme of its kind will be delivered on a national scale. The £21 million scheme is part of the wider Aimhigher programme, which is aimed at students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

There were over 200 entries to the ntional Aimhigher aards this year, which celebrates the most effective and innovative Aimhigher work being undertaken across the country, and the achievements of those that benefit from the programme.

Pat McFadden, minister for business, innovation and skills, presented Dhunnoo with his award at the ceremony, alongside education journalist and BBC news correspondent, Mike Baker.

McFadden says: “Aimhigher is a brilliant example of a programme that changes the lives of young people: it helps to give them the chance of a better future, and to realise their dreams and ambitions. I am pleased to be involved in the 2009 Awards, celebrating the hard work and dedication of those benefiting from Aimhigher and the staff who support them.

“It is heartwarming to read the stories of individuals who have won awards, some from very challenging circumstances. The Government is committed to pursuing social justice, which is why we have continued to expand the university system and explore ways to make it more accessible. I believe the future of higher education remains exceedingly bright for our young people.”