A programme dedicated to supporting young people with learning disabilities into employment in the north-east of Scotland has marked its latest milestone with a graduation ceremony at the University of Aberdeen.
The DFN Project SEARCH programme celebrated the achievements of its 2025/26 cohort at King’s College Conference Centre on Friday, 29 May.
Delivered in partnership, the programme offers participants the opportunity to gain real-world work experience alongside training in employability and independent living skills, helping young people with learning disabilities and autistic spectrum conditions move into paid employment.
Professor Peter Edwards, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, who presented the interns with their graduation certificates, said: “We are proud to celebrate another year of this unique and impactful programme at the University. Graduation is always a significant milestone and today marks a truly special achievement for our interns, their families, and all those across the University and wider community who have supported them throughout their journey.
“Project SEARCH continues to play a vital role in driving meaningful change beyond education and into the workplace and society. Our graduates are inspiring ambassadors, demonstrating the value of neurodiversity and the contribution young people can make in the workplace. We congratulate them warmly and wish them every success in the next stage of their careers.”
Neil Cowie, Principal of North East Scotland College, where the interns are registered students, said: “Our congratulations go to all of the graduates we are recognising and our appreciation to the colleagues from the Project SEARCH partners who have been part of this journey with the class of 2026. The achievements being celebrated are a demonstration of the talent and dedication of this year’s cohort.
“Graduation is always a significant moment. It marks the end of one chapter, but the start of a very exciting new one – we look forward to seeing what those next adventures in the world of work hold and know that every individual has so much to offer.”
The ceremony also included contributions from senior representatives from Values Into Action Scotland (VIAS), which holds the licence to operate the DFN Project SEARCH programme in Aberdeen.
Norma Curran, Chief Executive, said: “As an organisation, VIAS is very proud of the achievements of this year's interns. It is hard to believe that the confident individuals that stand before us in May and the same people that attended interview the year before, shy and lacking confidence. They are such amazing role models for DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen and this fabulous partnership. We appreciate the many people involved in delivering this unique experience for young people in the north east of Scotland. We are excited to see interns next steps after graduation and wish them all well for a bright future.”
Highlights from the ceremony included contributions from graduating Interns and the premiere of a video showcasing highlights from their Project SEARCH journey.
Thanks were extended at the ceremony to the representatives of all organisations which supported the programme over the last year, including Aberdeenshire Council and Shell UK, and several local businesses who generously provided sponsorship and external placement opportunities.