Send a Refugee Youth in Malaysia to a University

Summary

This project aims to provide financial support to deserving refugee youth living in Malaysia, who could never afford to, the chance to pursue their higher education dreams in 2023 and beyond. This Scholarship is the first of its kind for refugees in Malaysia, in line with UNHCR's roadmap to reach 15% enrolment of refugees in higher education by 2030.

Challenge

The opportunity for refugees to pursue tertiary education is extremely limited in Malaysia due to the absence of legal frameworks. Less than 1% of refugee youth in the country are enrolled in universities, as compared to the 6% enrolment rate of young refugees worldwide according to UNHCR statistics, and 45% enrolment of Malaysians in higher education. Being excluded and left behind in education has tremendous negative effects on the future of the refugee population for generations to come.

Solution

We are committed to providing refugee youth with financial needs, excellent past academic performance, and demonstrated community impact, the opportunity to study full-time undergraduate degrees through the award of scholarships. The scholars will also be given access to volunteering programs, mentorship, mental health support, internship placements, and extracurricular activities to increase their community interaction and personal development.

Long-Term Impact

In our first year, we awarded 5 scholarships to deserving refugee youth. The Scholarship will allow them to participate in and complete their higher education degree. Through completion of their education, students will be able to develop their personal skills, knowledge, experience, and facilitate greater access to employment opportunities that will help them and their families to rise out of poverty. Our goal is to provide these scholarships annually to at least 15 deserving students.