University of Westminster and Sony Interactive Entertainment provide access to education for Black students and underrepresented groups in higher education

This will primarily support students on courses in Westminster’s School of Computer Science and Engineering and will encourage students to consider and pursue careers in the entertainment, technology and gaming industry.

Overall, Sony Interactive Entertainment’s support will benefit 264 students from 2021 to 2025, including prospective students interested in Undergraduate and Master’s courses as well as current undergraduates and postgraduates at the University of Westminster.

A total of 13 undergraduate students will benefit from the Level-Playing Field Scholarship supported by PlayStation Career Pathways Program, an SIE initiative, which will provide financial support to cover their tuition fees and living expenses from September 2021.

A further 11 postgraduate students will benefit from financial support to cover their tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of their Master’s from September 2021.  

Students that attend the Computer Games Design Saturday Skills Club will also be supported. This is a school club in Computer Games Design for students aged between 16 and 18.

The club aims to introduce new skills and information about the industry and encourage pupils to pursue a career in gaming and digital media.

The announcement demonstrates the University of Westminster’s as well as Sony Interactive Entertainment’s commitment to Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion. Both the University and SIE are committed to providing opportunities and support to ensure that people from every background can realise their true potential.

Jordan Scammell, Head of Development at the University of Westminster, said: “As the first polytechnic in London, The University of Westminster has historically supported students from under-privileged backgrounds and we are committed to providing opportunities so everyone can reach their true potential.

“We are aware of the need in the computing and digital engineering sectors for increased participation from Black and ethnic minority communities and the support from Sony Interactive Entertainment will play a vital role in changing this. It will provide an incredible opportunity for our Black and ethnic minority scholars to solely focus on their studies while widening diverse participation in the fields covered by our School of Computer Science and Engineering.”

Tiffany Hester, Sr. Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Sony Interactive Entertainment, said: “We want to realize the power of education to generate economic wealth for Black people and other underrepresented groups. The support we have provided to University of Westminster is one strand of that vision as set out within the newly formed PlayStation Career Pathways Program. Our program’s mission is to drive a new era of creativity, development, and growth in the gaming industry by fostering strategic partnerships and providing career pathway opportunities to underrepresented communities.”