The situation
Ethan Scott Brown, a 23-year-old geography student, took his own life on December 13, 2024—the very day he was supposed to walk across the stage for his graduation from the University of Glasgow. The tragedy followed a series of communication errors by the institution, which incorrectly informed him in September 2024 that he hadn't received a grade for a course, effectively barring him from graduating with his honors degree.
Why it matters
Ethan's mother, Tracy Scott, eventually collected his degree posthumously, but the family is far from satisfied. After settling a civil court action with the university for an undisclosed amount, the family met with Scottish Education Secretary Màiri McAllan to push for a formal fatal accident inquiry. Their solicitor, Aamer Anwar, didn't hold back, arguing that the university’s governance is “not fit for purpose” and that in its quest to be a top-tier global institution, it has completely “forgotten its soul.”
The University of Glasgow has issued a formal apology and stated it is working to implement changes following a review by the Quality Assurance Agency. However, for those close to Ethan, the fight for systemic change is only just beginning. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service are currently investigating the circumstances of his death.
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