Bursary program set up at Leicester universities in memory of law firm’s managing partner

Law firm Freeths has established a bursary program in memory of Mukesh Patel, the former managing partner of Freeths’ Leicester office, for law students at the University of Leicester and De Montfort University.

This bursary program will offer local undergraduate law students an annual award of £4,000 for a duration of three years, with a special focus on supporting students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds who aspire to pursue a career in law.

The firm has introduced this initiative as a tribute to Mukesh Patel’s legacy and his dedication to promoting diversity and equality within the legal profession and the local business community.

Tragically, Patel passed away on February 18th at the age of 54, leaving behind his wife Rita and their two sons.

Steve Corbett, director of development and alumni relations at The University of Leicester said: “The Freeths Skylark Scholarship is a generous package of benefits aimed at supporting Law students who are facing financial challenges throughout their time at university and beyond. From monetary support to mentoring and placement opportunities, the Scholarship has been developed to offer recipients a solid first few steps on their way to a successful career in law. A huge thanks to Freeths for choosing to support Leicester students in honour of Mukesh Patel.

“The Freeths Skylark Scholarship is part of the University of Leicester’s broader Skylark Scholarship programme, which has been established entirely thanks to the support of philanthropic donors. We look forward to seeing our inaugural Skylark scholars progress and hope to see this transformational scholarship programme grow.”