A promising Cambridge University student, supported by the prestigious Stormzy scholarship, was found dead in his university accommodation after struggling with the pressure of failing his first-year exams, a coroner's inquest has heard.
The body of 20-year-old Emmanuel Okyere, a first-year Land Economy student from east London, was discovered in his room at Hughes Hall on the morning of 25th June. The hearing in Huntingdon was told that Mr. Okyere had been informed just days earlier that he had not passed his end-of-year assessments.
A Bright Future Cut Short
Emmanuel was one of the talented Black students selected for the groundbreaking scholarship programme funded by grime artist Stormzy, aimed at increasing diversity and access to the elite institution.
His heartbroken family described him as a "brilliant, loving and resilient young man" who had dreamed of attending Cambridge since childhood. He had been a high-achieving pupil at his comprehensive school and was considered a role model in his community.
The Weight of Expectation
The inquest heard evidence that the transition to one of the world's most demanding universities had taken its toll. A close friend testified that Emmanuel had found the academic workload "overwhelming" and had been deeply distressed by his exam results.
University support services had been in contact with him following his results, and he was due to have a follow-up meeting to discuss resits and his options. Tragically, he was found before that meeting could take place.
University and Scholarship Programme Respond
A spokesperson for the University of Cambridge expressed profound sorrow, stating: "We are deeply saddened by the death of Emmanuel Okyere. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."
A representative for the Stormzy Scholarship said: "We are utterly heartbroken by the tragic loss of Emmanuel. He was an incredibly bright young man with a future full of potential. We are offering our full support to his family and to all our scholars during this devastating time."
The inquest has been adjourned while further investigations are conducted. A full hearing is expected to take place at a later date.
