A Never-Dimming Zeal for Education
“Having lived in Canada for a few months now, I am thrilled by the diverse cultures and the friendly vibe,” remarked Abuk Angok (pictured right), who is living at Conrad Grebel University College and studying at the University of Waterloo. “My life’s journey has been a difficult struggle, filled with hopelessness, suffering, and disillusionment. Despite all this, my passion for education has never dimmed.”
“I began my schooling in 2009 in South Sudan, before fleeing due to civil war,” remembered Abuk. “Unfortunately, in August of 2013, our domicile was burnt down by the brutal pastoralist men who mercilessly attacked our village and raided various herds of cattle. Many children, youths, and women were killed, maimed, and displaced.”
Abuk arrived in Canada through a scholarship from the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) Student Refugee Program, which provides the life-changing opportunity for post-secondary education to refugees from around the world. To help fund the scholarship, the Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association requests an optional fee of $5.18 per student, in addition to regular tuition. More than 15 years ago, Grebel students, recognizing the value of welcoming people with diverse experiences, chose to add $20 per term to their overall residence fee. Since then, Grebel has welcomed and supported 12 students through the WUSC program.
“After our home was destroyed, we moved to a temporary protection camp in South Sudan for a few months before fleeing due to another politically instigated civil war and eventually settling down at Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya,” Abuk recalled. “In Kakuma, I continued my studies with the free education provided by the United Nations (UN). I completed my primary school education in 2018 and earned a community-based scholarship, Seeds of South Sudan, due to my outstanding performance. This scholarship took me through secondary school. I then got the WUSC scholarship after doing well in high school.”
“Supporting students through the WUSC program is important to the Grebel community and aligns with the College's mission,” explained Gemma Ricker-Rampersad, Student Life and Recruitment Coordinator. “The Grebel WUSC students are supported by the Local Committee, the Grebel Student Services staff, and other Grebel residents. We aim to offer wrap-around support to help students transition smoothly into their life in Canada.”
“When I arrived from Kenya, I was warmly received by the WUSC members and Gemma at the airport. This made me feel truly welcomed,” noted Abuk. “Upon arriving at Grebel, Gemma and her colleagues ensured I had everything I needed. They gave me a tour of the campus, introduced me to the staff, and helped me get acquainted with the Dons, who were always ready to assist. Everyone at Grebel played a part in helping me settle in quickly.”
Currently enrolled in Honours Arts, Abuk plans to study Computer Science. “I want to work in software development, focusing on creating accessible technology to address community needs in the tech industry,” explained Abuk. “In the future, I hope to establish a non-profit organization that provides free coding workshops and resources for those in remote areas as a way of giving back to the community.”
“I appreciate the sense of community and the focus on collaborative living at Grebel,” added Abuk. “The culture that emphasizes values like simplicity and service creates a supportive environment that has made it easier for me to adjust.”
By Tasbiha Ansari