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University of Galway has awarded the inaugural Hygeia Scholarship to first year Bachelor of Commerce student Joseph Cunnane. Over the next 10 years Hygeia will support ten students with a financial award as well as the opportunity of undertaking work placement and internships with the company. The scholarship will include mentorship by Hygeia employees, supporting students through their academic and personal development, as well as opportunities for work placements and internships so that students gain valuable skills and insight for their future careers. Joseph Cunnane, from Kilkelly, Co Mayo, is from a farming background and hopes to establish his own business in his home county at some stage in the future. Commenting on his award Joseph Cunnane said: “I am delighted to be a recipient of the Hygeia Scholarship. This provides me with an excellent opportunity to pursue my degree here at University of Galway. Thank you to the management team at Hygeia and all the staff at the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics for providing me this once in a lifetime experience. This is an incredible programme that helps improve accessibility to higher education, and I look forward to expanding my insight and knowledge into the world of business.” John Byrne, chief executive of Hygeia, said: “This scholarship is important for Hygeia as it allows us to work more closely with the University and support students to get the most from their University experience. We are really proud to be a Galway based business and we want students at the University to think about a career with Hygeia so we will be here for the next 80 years.” President of University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said: “We are extremely grateful to Hygeia for their generosity and support of students at University of Galway. We are deeply committed to supporting students from diverse backgrounds in Galway including ensuring that our university can be an ambition for all young people in our region. I congratulate Joseph who is a very impressive recipient of this inaugural award.” Established in Galway City in 1939 by Dr Donny Coyle and now based in Oranmore, Hygeia manufacture and distribute high performance garden care, agricultural and animal care products. They continue to offer innovative solutions and strive to select the most environmentally friendly and sustainable options. Hygeia has ambitious plans for growth over the coming years and plan to contribute to the local jobs market and local community. Ends