UHI colleges named finalists across multiple categories in CDN Awards 2025
Five colleges from the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) partnership have been named as finalists in the 2025 College Development Network (CDN) Awards, which celebrate innovation, excellence and achievement across Scotland’s college sector.
From pioneering digital learning and environmental sustainability to championing community inclusion and student success, UHI staff and students are being recognised for impactful projects that make a real difference in their communities and beyond.
Our finalists include:
➕ UHI Inverness (on behalf of the academy partners)
CECA Scotland Academy – Employer Connections Award
An 18-week, scalable, employer-led model of skills development in the civil engineering sector, that guarantees job interviews to completing students.
➕ UHI Moray
Digital Essentials for Carers – Digital Learning Award
Developed in partnership with Digital Health Initiative, this fully online short course is designed to upskill paid and unpaid carers in digital tools to support their vital roles.
Just Transition Project – Sustainability Action Award
A collaborative, place-based initiative embedding green skills into education, supporting regional industries, and ensuring an inclusive transition to a net-zero economy.
➕ UHI North, West and Hebrides
For Peat’s Sake – Innovation and Research Award.
A partnership with NatureScot’s Peatland Action, this project delivers skills training and research in peatland restoration, supporting Scotland’s climate goals.
Digital Student Ambassador Programme – Marketing and Communications Award
A student-led ambassador programme to create online content about their experiences while gaining skills and paid work opportunities.
Adam Hutchison – Student of the Year Award
A Fort William-based music student recognised for his resilience and ambition, overcoming the challenges of cerebral palsy to perform and inspire peers.
➕ UHI Perth
The International Integration Initiative (3i) – Inclusive College Award
Supporting ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students, including refugees and asylum seekers, through cultural activities and partnerships with local organisations.
Christopher Kaan Caudwell – Student of the Year Award
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.
➕ Sabhal Mòr Ostaig
Tobar an Dualchais / Kist o Riches – College Community Learning Award
Scotland’s online cultural heritage resource which preserves and presents thousands of archival audio recordings including songs, stories, music, and customs and beliefs, in Gaelic, Scots, and English.
Vicki Nairn, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UHI, said:
"Our partner colleges are at the heart of their communities, and these nominations show the incredible impact they are having, from tackling climate change and supporting carers to empowering students from around the world. Being shortlisted across so many categories reflects the strength and diversity of the UHI partnership, and we’re proud to see this work celebrated. We wish all our finalists the very best of luck in December."
The winners will be announced at a national ceremony on Thursday 4 December 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow. The event is delivered by CDN and supported by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), showcasing the talent, skills, and achievements of colleges, their staff, and students across Scotland.
For more information about the awards, visit: www.cdn.ac.uk