When 24-year-old Niyonkuru Samuel arrived at MUST four weeks ago, he was carrying more than just books. 

He was carrying a dream he once thought he had lost.

A refugee from Rwanda living at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa, Samuel had almost given up on his dream of higher education after financial challenges prevented him from taking up a place at the University of Malawi, where he had been selected after passing Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations in 2024.

With no other option, Samuel started teaching at one of the schools in the camp to earn a living while hoping that one day another opportunity would come.

That opportunity came through the Forum for African Women Educationalists in Malawi (FAWEMA) Bridging Scholarship Program.

The program equips academically deserving but financially disadvantaged students with knowledge and skills they need to transition successfully into university education. 

Over the past four weeks, Samuel and his fellow students have been taking part in intensive academic lessons as they prepare for their examinations on August 24, 2026.

Samuel was selected to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences under the scholarship program after passing some exams.

"Being at MUST has given me another chance to achieve my dream. I am learning every day, and I am working hard because I want to pass my examinations and secure my place at the university," he said.

He added that opportunities like the FAWEMA Bridging Scholarship Program are rare for young people living in refugee camps.

As the examinations draw closer, Samuel remains focused on his studies, determined to turn this second chance into a lifelong achievement.

His story reflects the great role MUST continues to play by hosting programs that expand access to higher education and create opportunities for talented young people, regardless of their background.

FAWEMA is implementing the scholarship with public universities in Malawi with support from Mastercard Foundation.