George's dream comes true
29/09/2008
Through brilliant final school exam results, George qualified for entry to the University of Zambia, but was unable to take up the challenge because of financial problems. With support from SOS Social Centre Lusaka and a local company, George's dream is coming true.
George's* dream of studying economics at the University of Zambia has finally come true.
Having scored an impressive nine points in his final school exams, George had qualified for entry onto his chosen course at the University of Zambia in the country's capital Lusaka, but was unable to take up the challenge because of financial problems.
Bayport Financial Services Limited, a mass-market credit provider has awarded a scholarship for the entire four-year study programme to George. The scholarship covers tuition, books and accommodation as well as a monthly stipend.
Georgie, as he is known to his friends and family is one of the youths whose families are being supported through the outreach programme attached to the SOS Social Centre Lusaka.
In an interview, Mr Justin Chola, Chief Executive Officer for Bayport Financial Services explained that Georgie's story came to their attention through the SOS Children's Villages Zambia regular newsletter to supporters. Georgie's brilliant performance and sheer determination to overcome so many challenges to continue with his education inspired Bayport to award him the scholarship.
Corporate support for George
Mr Chola explained that this was in line with the Bayport's community based initiatives which endevour to support children from disadvantaged backgrounds with educational support.
Georgie says he is overwhelmed by Bayport's support. Prior to starting his studies, Georgie had a three month stint with Bayport Financial Services working as a Loans Processing Officer. He was touched by the warm welcome and assistance from management and staff.
He is grateful for this exposure. So far he has settled well at university - Georgie says he finds university life very exciting and his studies challenging.
He enjoys interacting with friends with a similar vision. In his own words he would like to thank Mr Chola and Mrs Akapelwa the Financial Services Executive Director for their support. He would also like to thank SOS Children’s Village of Zambia for the support they continue to offer his family.
Georgie would like to encourage all youths who are in similar circumstances not to feel discouraged but to forge ahead and never to lose hope. Even when they fail they should not give up but work hard to achieve their goals. Georgie says it is his prayer that he will succeed in his studies. He promises to remain focussed and would not like to let down all the people who have shown so much confidence in him.
Relevant Countries: Zambia.