Strings of Strength: Abdulkader's Educational and Musical Journey in Türkiye

In times of displacement, education plays a pivotal role in creating a space that fosters social cohesion, provides access to life-saving information, addresses psychosocial needs, and offers a stable and safe environment for those who need it most. Additionally, education empowers individuals to pursue productive, meaningful lives.
Abdulkader, a Somali under international protection, is continuing his educational journey in Türkiye where he arrived in 2007 with his family after fleeing home to seek safety. A mere 12 years old at the time, he immersed himself in the Turkish language and culture. His determination not only propels his success as a final-year student at Mersin University but also provided him with UNHCR’s higher education scholarship programme called DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) Scholarship Programme, which helped him through his education life in Türkiye.
Türkiye, however, didn't just gift him language skills; it unveiled his hidden passion for music. Abdulkader's ears caught the traditional tunes of Turkish folk music, leading him to the strings of the `bağlama`, the most commonly used string folk instrument in Türkiye. Faced with economic difficulties, he was unable to continue receiving bağlama lessons. However, he used this as an opportunity to learn the guitar, opening a door to various opportunities. Streets became his stage, eventually turning into performances at venues. The applause he received boosted his confidence, and gradually, music became a source of livelihood for him. Now a young adult, Abdulkader can not only speak fluently but also compose songs in Turkish.

“I couldn't live without music.”

Abdulkadir weaved his passion for music into his academic pursuits. A final-year student in Radio and Television at Mersin University's Communications department, he found a bridge between his studies and musical aspirations. Abdulkadir says, “I met very good friends and professors. It also helped me to dream for the future, as my department was closely related to what I was already doing.” Taking his academic pursuits to another level, he also entered the Conservatory in the opera-singing department and will be graduating from there as well.
For Abdulkader, music transcends being merely an art form; it's a unique language, a lifeline intertwining purpose and happiness into his being. “I couldn't live without music. Music gives me meaning to live; it is what keeps me alive,” he emphasizes.
Embarking on such a journey in a foreign country does not come without challenges. Abdulkader says, “I have to hold on to my education for myself and my family. I didn't get here easily.” As a student and aspiring musician, the DAFI scholarship played a pivotal role in easing financial burdens.

“The scholarship felt like a Band-Aid.”

Abdulkader says the DAFI scholarship allowed him to focus on his studies and music, alleviating financial difficulties. “The scholarship felt like a Band-Aid; it wrapped me up and gave me the opportunity to spend time with my friends and socialize,” he emphasizes.
As for the future, Abdulkader dreams of being a global artist. Combining Turkish folk music, African music, and Reggae in his songs, ‘Eyvah,’ one of his original melodies, is streaming on the music platform Spotify. For advice to those in a similar situation and who have faced adversity, Abdulkader says they should never give up, as the feeling of success is something every person should be able to experience or taste in their lifetime.
 
Through the DAFI initiative, UNHCR has been granting scholarships to refugee students for more than two decades. Launched in Türkiye in 2014, the program has expanded to become one of the largest DAFI initiatives globally.
This scholarship serves as a vital resource for refugees, empowering them to contribute knowledge, skills, and leadership while fostering self-sufficiency. With the support of the Government of Germany, alongside with the government of Denmark, UNHCR, and private donors, the initiative has assisted over 24,300 young refugees in pursuing higher education since 1992. UNHCR Türkiye expresses gratitude to Germany and Denmark for their enduring commitment to supporting refugees in Türkiye, enabling them to construct a stable foundation for their future.