Students left waiting in line for their gowns
STUDENTS were left queuing around the streets of Cardiff as they attempted to collect their gowns ahead of their graduation ceremonies yesterday.
Cardiff University graduates who have waited two years for their ceremonies were queuing right around City Hall waiting to collect their robes.
Students confirmed their ceremonies were pushed back to allow them to retrieve the correct dress though there were still concerns many wouldn’t make it in time.
Many students said they were “disgusted” with the university’s lack of organisation and have missed out on scheduled photos, garden ceremonies, and graduation ceremonies as a result.
The university had already come under fire earlier this year after announcing its original graduation plans for mass ceremonies at the Principality Stadium.
Plans were then changed to accommodate individual recognition ceremonies.
A Cardiff University yesterday spokesperson said: “We apologise that some of our students are experiencing delays in collecting their gowns today.
“We are working hard with our supplier to solve the issue as a matter of urgency.
“Some school recognition events have been postponed for 30 minutes to accommodate the delay. We are also adding extra school recognition events throughout the day to ensure no student misses out – in these cases students will be notified directly.
“We do not expect the delay in gown collection this morning to have an impact on the ceremony at Principality
Stadium this evening.”
Cardiff University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Claire Morgan apologised to students at the start of last night’s ceremony.
“We’re very sorry. It is not what we expected, nor what you deserve,” she said.
“Those of you affected will hopefully have seen how we really tried to put it right throughout the day.
“For some of you, it’s a big ask, but tonight, I hope this evening marks a turning point in your day and my thanks again for your patience.”