UHI celebrates success at the CDN College Awards 2025
The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) is celebrating the success of its staff and students following multiple wins and commendations at the 2025 College Development Network (CDN) College Awards.
The national awards ceremony, held on Thursday 4 December in Glasgow, recognises excellence, innovation and achievement across Scotland’s college sector. Now in their 26th year, the awards shine a spotlight on outstanding projects, partnerships and individuals making a meaningful impact for learners, communities and industry.
The ceremony was hosted by broadcaster Amy Irons and featured a keynote address from Ben Macpherson MSP, Minister for Higher and Further Education, who praised the vital role colleges play in supporting Scotland’s workforce and communities. Guests also enjoyed performances from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig.
UHI winners and commended finalists
UHI North, West and Hebrides – Winner: Innovation and Research Award
Project: For Peat’s Sake
Delivered in partnership with NatureScot’s Peatland Action, this project combines research and skills training in peatland restoration, supporting Scotland’s climate and biodiversity goals through collaborative, place-based innovation.
UHI Perth – Winner: Student of the Year
Christopher Kaan Caudwell
A computing student recognised for leadership, resilience and innovation, including the development of Gestura, an award-winning AI app that translates British Sign Language into speech.
UHI Moray – Highly Commended: Sustainability Action Award
Project: Just Transition Project
A collaborative, place-based initiative embedding green skills into education and supporting an inclusive transition to a net-zero economy.
UHI Inverness (on behalf of the academy partners) – Commended: Employer Connections Award
Project: CECA Scotland Academy
An employer-led, scalable model of skills development in the civil engineering sector, guaranteeing job interviews for completing students and supporting industry workforce needs.
UHI Moray – Commended: Digital Learning Award
Project: Digital Essentials for Carers
A fully online short course developed in partnership with the Digital Health Initiative, empowering paid and unpaid carers with essential digital and employability skills.
UHI North, West and Hebrides – Commended: Student of the Year
Adam Hutchison
A music student based in Fort William, recognised for his resilience, ambition and commitment to learning while overcoming the challenges of cerebral palsy.
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig – Commended: College Community Learning Award
Project: Tobar an Dualchais / Kist o Riches
Scotland’s national online cultural heritage resource, preserving thousands of archival audio recordings in Gaelic, Scots and English.
UHI North, West and Hebrides – Commended: Marketing and Communications Award
Project: Digital Student Ambassador Programme
A student-led initiative creating online content while offering skills development and paid work opportunities.
UHI Perth – Commended: Inclusive College Award
Project: International Integration Initiative (3i)
Recognised for supporting English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students, including refugees and asylum seekers, through cultural activities and partnerships with local organisations.
Vicki Nairn, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UHI, said:
“We are incredibly proud of our staff and students who were recognised at this year’s CDN College Awards. Their achievements reflect the creativity, commitment and ambition that define the UHI partnership.
"From tackling climate change and supporting carers, to championing inclusion and student success, this work is delivering real impact for learners, communities and industry across our regions and it is wonderful to see these achievements recognised on a national stage.”
The CDN College Awards celebrate 13 national award categories and are delivered by the College Development Network, supported by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).