March 14, 2024
News
Baruani is a 24-year-old student originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. He fled his home country with his family to neighbouring Zambia to escape violence and conflict. They found safety in the refugee settlement of Mantapala, but Baruani wanted something more - an education that would also allow him to help other refugees. Thanks to our support, he is now studying at a university in Zambia’s capital, Lusaka.
I wanted to study to broaden my horizons
The socioeconomic disparities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been a significant obstacle in Baruani’s life. The country has a long history of conflict and political instability, and the majority of the population lives below the poverty line. The situation in his home country made Baruani realise that he did not see a future for himself in the country. His family fled to Zambia, where Baruani hoped to enrol in a university. He is currently in the third year of a Bachelor's programme in mass communication and public relations.
“I decided to study mass communication because I wanted to develop my mindset and broaden my knowledge of the world,” Baruani recalls. This degree targeted his needs for his future the best, as he wants to be able to interact with as many people as possible and enrich his understanding of communication theories and public relations.
However, it was not easy to study at a university in Zambia. After being rejected the first time because he did not speak much English, Baruani almost lost hope of obtaining a scholarship. Thanks to his determination and strength, in the second year, he succeeded and managed to be selected for the DAFI scholarship facilitated by Caritas Czech Republic in Zambia with the support of UNHCR, which aims to empower refugees and enable them to pursue higher education.
I want to give back to the community
”I would like to continue my studies and get a master's degree to fulfil my dream of becoming an entrepreneur,” says Baruani, thinking about his future. Baruani wants to support his family and other communities that are facing the same challenges he had to surpass.
“I would like to give back to the community after getting an education and improving my knowledge,” says Baruani. One way to do that is to have the capability to communicate and transmit his skills and experiences. He is hopeful that he is on the right path to a better future.
How Caritas Czech Republic supports refugees in Zambia
Just like Baruani, refugees in Zambia are confronted with numerous problems and challenges in accessing higher education. The Albert Einstein German Refugee Academic Initiative (DAFI) remains a glimmer of hope for them. The aim of this initiative is to empower and allow refugees to pursue their academic aspirations by equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to follow their ambitions. The DAFI scholarship programme, funded by the German Embassy and UNHCR and implemented by Caritas Czech Republic in Zambia, provides support to vulnerable refugees by offering guidance, preparatory aid and financial support. The scholarship provides Baruani with the necessary tools to boost his capacity to give back to the community.
Helping refugees on their way to education is also possible thanks to our donors. Support students like Baruani by donating a Meaningful Gift and giving the gift of education.
