UNIVERSITY OF SANCTUARY

UNIVERSITY OF SANCTUARY OPENS DOORS

“I DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT, BUT IRELAND FEELS LIKE HOME” NDODANA KHUMALO HAD HIS HEART SET ON GOING TO MAYNOOTH, BUT IT SEEMED LIKE IT MIGHT BE OUT OF HIS GRASP.

Two years ago, Ndodana’s father fled political upheaval in Zimbabwe and was granted international protection in Ireland. “When he left direct provision, I joined him in Monaghan,” says 20-year-old Ndodana. “Study opportunities are limited in Zimbabwe and there is very little employment. But leaving was a huge step for me; I didn’t know what to expect in Ireland.”

Ndodana enrolled in Monaghan Institute and sat exams to qualify for a place in third level. “A friend told me about Maynooth University’s Bachelor of Science degree. He said that the campus was beautiful and very welcoming for refugees and minorities. I knew straight away it was the place for me, but didn’t think I could afford the cost of college.”

Ndodana applied for one of our three Sanctuary Scholarships, which are open to international protection applications, refugees and those who have leave to remain, but do not qualify for free fees. The scholarships include a package of supports such as pre-paid transport, subsistence costs, a laptop and, crucially, a fee waiver.

“No words can describe how grateful I was to be offered the scholarship,” Ndodana says. “It’s so hard for people who don’t have the funds to pay for college and who have to work several jobs. For me, it means that I can really focus on working hard and doing well in my general science course.”

Earlier this year, Maynooth was officially awarded “University of Sanctuary” status in recognition of its initiatives to promote a culture of welcome for refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants. The award is an initiative of the University of Sanctuary Ireland (UoSI) to encourage and celebrate higher education institutions that are welcoming and inclusive. The Sanctuary Scholarships form a key part of the University's efforts. Ndodana moved from Monaghan to Maynooth and, while Covid-19 restrictions altered the campus experience, he took it in his stride and is looking forward to getting involved in the college basketball team.

Ndodana says that he receives moral and emotional support from his Maynooth classmates and lecturers. “Ireland has been so loving and welcoming to me. I haven’t experienced racism and I haven’t been made to feel different or separate. I really hope to stay here for the long-term, and I’m hoping to do a master's and get work in the pharmaceutical sector. I’m embracing Ireland like it has embraced me. It feels like home.”

Bachelor of Science student and University of Sanctuary scholarship awardee Ndodana Khumalo