The Sunday Mail
Sunday Mail Reporter
Africa University has granted scholarships and financial assistance worth over US$1,3 million to over 600 students in need to help fund their education.
In a statement, the institution said students from 20 countries were currently receiving assistance.
The funds were raised through engaging the institution’s partners and donors from around the world.
“The nature of aid provided to students is determined by their need and ranges from meal allowances, tuition fees, technology assistance and personal upkeep allowances,” reads the statement.
“Education levels across Africa have improved considerably in the last decade, with more students completing secondary education and qualifying to enter universities around the continent and overseas. However, the costs associated with university education, even at subsidised rates, is still beyond the reach of many.”
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), The Raoul Wallenberg Institute, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe, Mastercard Foundation, Arise Africa, Chadiza Family Legacy and Bishops and Conferences of the United Methodist Church were among the donors.
Rumbidzai Sachiti, a medical laboratory science student who benefited from the facility, said she was grateful for the help.
“My scholarship award has allowed me to experience the spirit of Pan-Africanism and a growth in leadership which I would not have experienced anywhere else; for that, I am grateful,” she said.
The institution said it was consolidating its enrolment base. “Africa University has made great strides in maintaining its admissions rate, with student retention forming the basis of the development of its student support infrastructure from cultural integration, to psychosocial support, to mentorship through to financial aid.
“This holistic approach has seen the institution maintain a student retention rate of nearly 90 percent and a student success rate of 95 percent, making Africa University stand out in the higher education sector.”
