UlYP Change

Maria Alhaj – ULYP Change

Maria Alhaj,

In the 2023 academic year, alongside the ongoing issues that everyone was facing, school-age pupils confronted a significant task in completing the requirements, filling gaps in their education, and passing their tests. Many people spent much of their time studying and catching up. This added to the rigorous workload and extensive curriculum required before taking the Baccalaureate II official exams. As a result, requesting a Grade 12 student to participate in a program that needs time, even if it promises assistance, is a significant commitment for them, necessitating thoughtful deliberation and hard work. This makes Maria’s achievements, as well as those of all 156 CHANGE students, even more impressive.

In her words, “When I initially heard about the CHANGE program, I wasn’t sure if I should take the time to participate. However, I decided to join the program to explore how it could help me change. It has been almost six months since we started, and I can already tell the difference. To begin with, I needed help answering and comprehending exam questions in English. I also needed more confidence to speak English. Now, with the assistance of this program supported by the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund, I am increasing both talents with each session. On the other hand, I have gotten better at dealing with and talking to people. The social skills sessions helped me gain confidence and overcome my shyness. I used to avoid talking to my professors and classmates. Not anymore! I’ve found my voice and love my conversations with others.
The final line is that I am pleased with myself for entering the program. It is worthwhile, and CHANGE is changing me.”

Read more

Hadi Ghorayeb – ULYP Change

Hadi Ghorayeb,

Hadi is a first-generation university graduate. His Palestinian paternal and maternal grandparents sought refuge in Lebanon in 1948 and worked hard to establish a reasonable and modest life in Beirut.
Hadi was a studious child who enjoyed learning and consistently performed well in school. Hadi had an ambition of attending university to become a nurse when he almost finished school. This was not an easy dream to pursue, especially financially; his father, the family’s primary breadwinner, lost his job as a photographer at the start of the Lebanese economic crisis, and his mother’s modest income as a hairstylist was barely enough to cover the family’s basic living expenses. However, Hadi’s parents believed in him and his desire, even though pursuing nursing as a male was uncommon in their community.

Hadi’s ambition came heartfelt thanks to a grant from the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund. He recently earned his nursing degree from the American University of Science and Technology (AUST). Hadi finished all his needed credits on schedule, maintained a good GPA and received special mentions. Hadi also met all other requirements, completing over 1,250 practicum hours at four different hospitals, commuting back and forth, and working 12-hour shifts on occasion. Hadi was preparing to take the next round of international colloquium tests, which were expected in July 2024. after which he will look for possibilities to extend his studies, enhance his and his family’s livelihoods, and pursue his passion.
He said, “I can’t believe I’m a nurse today. I genuinely respect and like this career. I am fortunate to be able to provide patient treatment to people of all ages and walks of life. I don’t have enough words to thank the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund for making my goal come true. I thus guarantee the Fund and ULYP that I will honor the nurse’s vow to serve and practice my profession with conscience and dignity. I will never forget it, and I am grateful for the opportunity you provided. I wish always to make you proud.”

 

Read more

Muhamad Miari – Breaking Barriers Through Inclusive Education – UlYP Change

Muhamad Miari

Muhamad Miari’s journey is a shining example of unwavering commitment to inclusive education. Despite facing the challenges of visual impairment, Muhamad emerged as a beacon of success within the CHANGE program cohort, showcasing the transformative power of inclusive approach. In the face of adversity, Muhamad not only excelled academically but also honed essential social skills, proving that with the right support, every student can thrive.

Muhamad Miari’s story stands as a testament to the belief that inclusive education goes beyond overcoming physical barriers; it is about fostering an environment where all students, regardless of their challenges, can reach their full potential.

Read more

The Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund is administered by the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education (AGFE).

Contact Us

For any General or Program enquiries:  refugeeeducation@alghurairfoundation.org

For Media related enquiries: pr@alghurairfoundation.org

© Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund. All Rights Reserved