TO acknowledge the United Nations World Refugee Day, 52 refugees and asylum seekers, who are now living in Canberra, were awarded scholarships this morning (June 20). 

Run by Canberra Refugee Support, the ceremony took place in Multicultural Centre in Civic.

The scholarships help primary, secondary and higher education students with the costs of their education. They provide funding for compulsory fees, computers, books, sporting equipment and the many other costs associated with their education.

All scholarships are gifts donated by church groups, service clubs and private individuals.

One of the refugees who won a scholarship, Muzhgan Gafooricame, came to Australia from Afghanistan in 2013.

Muzhgan is now studying accountancy at the CIT while also being the sole income earner for her family and supporting her parents.

One of her teachers at the CIT said: “Despite all her commitments outside the classroom, Muzhgan never has an excuse for missing study or not completing assignments. Her work ethic and determination will take her a long way in an accounting career.”

Muzhgan said that the scholarship will help her with her enrolment fees and text books

“This will really help me. I’m currently working in retail to support my parents and the scholarship will really help,” she says.

Another scholarship winner Viola Oshan is from the Luo ethnic group in South Sudan.

Viola came to Canberra in 2015 and currently works part-time in a child care centre while completing a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

When qualified, she plans to have a career in child care.

“The scholarship will really assist me. Student fees are expensive and I need a new electronic device,” she says.

“We are managing but money is very tight with two children at school in Canberra and supporting my mother and father.”