One of the country’s top business leaders has returned to his old school in Monmouth to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Warren East CBE, the Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce, was a pupil at Monmouth School for Boys between 1973 and 1980.
A big supporter of the school, Mr East returned with his parents and wife, Amanda, to officially open The Relithan Science Centre on Saturday 17th November.
Highlighting the importance of studying science, Mr East said a growing population would be faced with challenges relating to health, water, food and energy over the next 30 years.
“The study and practise of science is essential to dealing with the challenges that the world is facing,” said Mr East, who grew up near Usk.
“Science is important in education today because it will equip our leaders of tomorrow to help address some of these big challenges. The next 30 years will see some serious challenges for our future scientists.”
Mr East built ARM Holdings into one of the world’s leading developers of semi-conductors with an outstanding record of innovation and a strong commitment to research and development.
The Old Monmothian was appointed CBE in the 2014 New Year’s Honours for services to the technology industry.
He became Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce, the leading UK-based engine manufacturer, in July 2015.
Mr East has always maintained close contact with the school.
The three-floor science block, which has areas dedicated to studying Biology, Chemistry and Physics, has been refurbished by The Relithan Charitable Trust established by Mr East and his wife, Amanda, a fellow engineer.
“I think curiosity is the foundation of science and Monmouth School was pivotal in everything I did and I enjoyed everything about the school,” said Mr East.
“I want current and future generations of pupils to have the excellent experience in Monmouth School science that I did and one of the enablers is to make sure the teachers have great tools and facilities.”
Headmaster at Monmouth School for Boys, Dr Andrew Daniel, said: “Our school is more closely related to science than any other curriculum area.
“Science is very important for Monmouth boys with many going on to study science subjects or perhaps engineering, medicine, computing at university and then many taking up careers in science and related fields after that.”
Dr Daniel added: “The two-year renovation and refurbishment of our science block has been a huge priority and a huge success for us. We thank Warren and his wife, Amanda, for their tremendous support in making this happen.”
