October 10, 2023
News
Evelyn is a young refugee from Burundi who has always dreamt of becoming an actuarial scientist. As a refugee, she has been facing many challenges. Thanks to Caritas Czech Republic, the DAFI scholarship programme and UNHCR, she got into university and is studying actuarial science today. “I am grateful for the DAFI scholarship because it not only gives me an opportunity to pursue my passion for actuarial science but also helps me contribute to the development of my host country and my home country, Burundi, once I graduate,” says Evelyn Mugabe.
Evelyn gets the DAFI scholarship
After struggling to raise money for her university fees, Evelyn began the journey of seeking a scholarship. It was not until September 2021 that Evelyn Mugabe was awarded a scholarship to study at the University of Lusaka. Like any other scholarship, it was not easy for her to receive it as there are many refugees in the country applying for the same scholarship.
Evelyn went through the entire application process and after being shortlisted, she had to go through the interview to determine whether she was among the right candidates for the DAFI scholarship.
“It was a tough process, but I am grateful that I still managed to get the scholarship. I am also aware that there are many Zambians who face difficulties in accessing education and I feel privileged to be able to pursue my studies as a refugee thanks to the DAFI scholarship. This opportunity pushes me to work extra hard and make the most out of the resources and opportunities that are available to me,” Evelyn says.
Take advantage of every good opportunity presented to you, advises Evelyn
Being a refugee brings with it many challenges and hardships that come with displacement. However, Evelyn believes that it is important to make the most of the opportunities that are given to each one of them and one of those opportunities is education which can empower refugees and help them create a better future for themselves and their communities.
“I am grateful for the DAFI scholarship because it not only gives me an opportunity to pursue my passion for actuarial science but also helps me contribute to the development of my host country and my home country, Burundi, once I graduate,” says Evelyn.
Evelyn has since encouraged her fellow refugees who have failed to get the scholarship to seize every other opportunity that can improve their lives. Evelyn believes that success is not determined solely by the degrees or qualifications one holds, but rather by dedication, perseverance, and determination one has towards achieving their goals. “Education is just one way through which we can gain knowledge and skills, but many successful individuals have achieved great things without a formal education,” says Evelyn.
For Evelyn, university is a place where she can learn, grow, and thrive. “It is a platform that allows me to explore my passion for actuarial science and make a positive impact in my field and of all the subjects, I am particularly drawn to mathematics,” she adds smilingly.
DAFI scholarships positively impact the lives of young refugees
The high cost of tertiary education acts as a barrier for refugees who aspire to pursue higher education. Many refugees in Zambia come from countries that have been affected by conflict or political instability, and as a result, they often face economic hardships. This makes it difficult for them to afford the expenses associated with tertiary education, such as tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other related costs.
Without financial support, refugees are unable to access higher education opportunities that can help them build a better future for themselves and contribute to the development of their communities. The lack of access to higher education also perpetuates a cycle of poverty and dependency among refugees.
Thanks to the German Embassy and UNHCR for introducing the DAFI scholarship that Caritas Czech Republic in Zambia is implementing, many refugees like Evelyn have managed to get financial support and scholarships specifically tailored for them to study in their desired fields.
Caritas Czech Republic in Zambia continues to support many communities in Zambia
Caritas Czech Republic has played a crucial role in supporting both refugees and host communities in Zambia. By working in partnership with UNHCR, we have supported many refugees to become self-reliant training them in different vocational skills such as tailoring, business management and many other vocational training programs that make the refugees marketable and help them set up their own businesses.
Caritas Czech Republic has also been supporting farmers in Western Province to adapt to new innovative solutions for climate change.
