More than 100 students received awards at the University College Isle of Man’s (UCM) awards ceremony.

The annual Higher Education Awards Ceremony took place at the Villa Marina, Douglas, with students being recognised for their efforts in degree courses, apprenticeships or professional certificates at the college.

This year, 86% of the higher education students achieved a first or upper second class grade, which is 10% over the UK standard.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle opened the event by congratulating the graduates on their success.

He said: ’Many of you will have already started contributing to our growing economy. I applaud all that you have done and look forward to your future contributions and successes.’

Student of the Year was announced as Alex Bowker, who achieved a BSc (Hons) degree in computer science.

The UCM commented on his ’great passion and dedication to achieve academic success, despite the challenges he faced throughout his learning journey’.

Manx scientist Dr Rachel Glover was this year’s Honorary Fellow for UCM.

The award recognises the ’significant contributions made by individuals whose professional and/or personal achievements truly reflect UCM’s mission and vision’.

Dr Glover’s expertise is in molecular ecology, biosurveillance, bioinformatics and genomics.

She is also the co-founder of Taxa Genomics, a Manx company that provides DNA testing services to the environmental and veterinary industry.

Her recent work includes designing a genetic health screen that can identify inherited diseases in dogs.

Jo Pretty, UCM principal, closed the ceremony, saying how valuable young people and adults are to the Isle of Man.

She said: ’We invest in them by providing the very best education, facilities and experiences for them; and like our successful graduates here this evening, in turn they will support our economy and our community.’

Degree courses at UCM are offered in conjunction with the University of Chester and the Manchester Metropolitan University.

This year, UCM is offering 22 higher education courses in subject areas including business; finance and management; information and communication technology: media; health, public services and care; sport; education and training and history.