Transforming lives; Newcastle University and the Goyal Foundation
We were delighted to welcome back Avnish Goyal CBE (Accounting and Finance, 1988) and his wife, Anita Goyal MBE, to connect with the students who benefit from the Goyal Foundation Scholarship programme.
5 February 2025
Since 2010, the Goyal Foundation has worked to empower disadvantaged children, young people, and women to improve their lives. Avnish and Anita recently provided 10 scholarships to provide financial support to help students flourish during their time at university.
Through the Goyal Foundation Scholarship, the couple is committed to breaking financial barriers for students and ensuring that talent and ambition - not circumstance - define success.
We recently welcomed the Goyals back to campus to meet the students they are supporting and to take part in a panel discussion at Newcastle University Business School on ‘How to Be a Changemaker'.
The impact on students
Speaking of his visit, Avnish commented, "meeting the Goyal Scholars was undoubtedly the highlight of our two days. It was incredibly rewarding to get to know them, hear their stories, and understand how the support they are receiving is making a tangible difference in their lives. Their resilience and determination are truly remarkable, and it is a privilege to be part of their journey."
Some of the scholars who have benefitted from the Goyal Foundation include:
Kostiantyn, a Biomedical Sciences student, who shared, "I am grateful for all the support I have received that has made studying at Newcastle University possible. Leaving Ukraine at the start of the Russian invasion was very challenging for me and my family. We moved to the UK as refugees, and only thanks to all the help from benefactors and the support of the Goyal Foundation did it become possible for me to enter higher education here."
Emma, a Medicine student, who shared, "pursuing my dream of studying Medicine has been both a challenging and deeply rewarding journey. My passion for this field was ignited by a very personal experience at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead, where my daughter Eden and I, received exceptional care after she fell critically ill, shortly after her birth. Witnessing the dedication and expertise of the healthcare professionals who cared for her, inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a positive impact on others’ lives and give something back."
Inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs to be changemakers
The day concluded with a panel discussion at our Business School with the Goyals on ‘How to be a Changemaker’. It explored key insights into their career journeys, entrepreneurial attitude, leadership philosophies, and their shared commitment to improving standards in ageing care.
The session encouraged students to ask questions, think ambitiously, act boldly, and pursue meaningful careers.
Transforming lives
The Goyal Foundation Scholarship is already making a profound difference, showcasing the transformative power of education and philanthropy. By supporting students in need, the programme addresses educational inequality and ensures we can continue nurturing the potential of future generations.
How you can help
Our mission to give Newcastle students the best possible opportunities is at the heart of everything we do. Our aim is to give each student the skills and experiences they need to thrive while with us, and in their future.
We don't want any student to miss out on what makes belonging to Newcastle University so special. With your help, we can fund scholarships, society memberships, sports equipment, field trips and more.
If you’d like to discuss how you can help us in this mission, please get in touch.