Title: Edinburgh University GraduatesReceive Diplomas in a Virtual Ceremony
2020has been a year of unprecedented challenges worldwide. The COVID-19pandemic has led to the cancellation or postponement of many events,including graduation ceremonies, making it challenging for graduatesto celebrate their hard-earned achievements. However, the Universityof Edinburgh found a way to ensure their graduates received theirdiplomas. On July 10, the university held its first-ever virtualgraduation ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
TheUniversity of Edinburgh, one of the oldest and most prestigiousuniversities in the world, celebrated the graduation of its studentsin a unique way, which, to a large extent, has gained wideracceptance amongst the university community. This year’s graduationceremony was conducted virtually, with students, parents, and facultymembers joining from different parts of the world via Zoom.
Thevirtual ceremony included speeches, a slideshow showing the faces ofthe graduates, and a performance by a Scottish band. Chancellor ofEdinburgh University, Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne, addressedthe graduates, congratulating them on their achievements. In herspeech, the Princess Royal acknowledged the challenges the graduatesfaced, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that thegraduates have proven their resilience and the capability to adapt tochanging environments.
TheUniversity of Edinburgh is known for its strong focus on academicresearch, innovation and cultural discovery. The institution hasranked in the top 20 universities worldwide, with over 30,000students, including 16,000 studying at the undergraduate level. TheUniversity of Edinburgh consistently produces world-class graduateswho can confidently compete on the global stage.
Graduatingamidst a pandemic is a daunting experience. The COVID-19 pandemic hasforced many recent graduates to reassess their career and life goals,with the labour market experiencing its highest unemployment rate.With the University of Edinburgh showing support for its graduates,the students are optimistic about the future and ready to adapt tothe ever-changing employment landscape.
Throughthe virtual graduation ceremony, the University of Edinburghshowcased its technological capabilities, making the entiregraduation ceremony a success without the need for a physicalaudience. Graduates, faculty members and their families were able tocelebrate this momentous occasion in a safe environment, which wasstill able to provide the same level of excitement and celebrationthat would have occurred in a traditional ceremony.
Furthermore,in light of the recent pandemic, it is clear that universities aretaking rapid action to improve their digital infrastructure.According to a poll by Times Higher Education, 50 percent ofuniversities are introducing more online resources and digitalcontent to make their campus life more accessible to students. It isexpected that students will witness more technology-enabled learningfrom universities, thereby gaining more access to digital-basedresources outside. Meanwhile, universities will have to adapt tosupporting online learning and providing quality learningexperiences.
Inconclusion, the University of Edinburgh's virtual graduation ceremonywas a success in facilitating the students’ graduation, which tookplace amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The unique experience has proventhat virtual learning offers more flexibility and is equally asimpactful as face-to-face education. As universities continue toadapt and improve their digital infrastructure, students’ access tohigh-quality education will become more accessible. Although thisyear's graduation was different, it was still a testament to theUniversity of Edinburgh’s commitment to excellence.