Cambridge receives record £190m to establish Rokos School of Government

On March 31, the University of Cambridge announced plans to establish the Rokos School of Government, supported by a £190 million commitment from investor Chris Rokos—believed to be the largest individual donation to a British university in modern times.

The School aims to equip future leaders to navigate complex domestic and international challenges. It will open in autumn 2026, housed in a new building within the Cambridge West Innovation District, and will draw on Cambridge’s expertise across technology, sciences, social sciences, arts and humanities.

Mr Rokos has made an initial gift of £130 million, with up to an additional £60 million to be matched by the University, which is also contributing the land for the development.

A British investor and philanthropist, Mr Rokos was identified as a gifted pupil at state school, won a scholarship to Eton, and graduated from Oxford with first-class honours in mathematics. His own education, made possible by scholarship support, inspired his commitment to initiatives promoting equality of opportunity, including programmes at Eton and Oxford. He has also long supported Cambridge, with contributions including internships and a fellowship in STEM at Girton College, as well as a further £5 million donation in 2026.

Reflecting on his commitment, Mr Rokos said his education transformed his life, and he hopes the School will become a key element of UK soft power.