Students Kharim, Kathia, Reza, Sami, Farah and Karim at the scholarship signing ceremony, Belgrade, December 2024 ©UNHCR/I.Szabo
The fourth anniversary of the successful implementation of the DAFI scholarship programme in Serbia was marked at an event held at the UN Building in Belgrade. Hosted by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, the gathering brought together distinguished guests, representatives of key institutions, professors, students and partners to celebrate the achievements and discuss the future of higher education opportunities for refugees in Serbia.
Six refugee students are currently pursuing higher education in Serbia. Their success is a testament to their hard work, talent and the support they have received from professors, fellow students, institutions and the DAFI scholarship programme.
These students are not only advancing academically but also giving back to society through social initiatives and by serving as ambassadors of diversity and equality. Their journey highlights the importance of inclusive education policies and the need for continued support to ensure more refugee youth can access higher education.
UNHCR, in cooperation with Serbian institutions, international partners and civil society, remains committed to expanding opportunities for refugee students. By working together, we can build a future where all young people, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to society.
Globally, only 7% of refugee youth have access to higher education, a number that remains far below the global average of 40% for non-refugee youth. The DAFI scholarship programme plays a crucial role in changing this reality by providing financial and academic support to refugee students, enabling them to pursue their studies and build a brighter future. Since its inception, DAFI has supported over 26,000 students worldwide, with more than 9,000 students benefiting from the programme in 2023 alone.
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