A student from Ghana is hoping to use his experiences in the UK to help improve the lives of people here and in his home country.
Samuel Kyei, of Kumasi, is doing a year-long Masters in Public Health at the 国产视频 as part of a Commonwealth Scholarship.
“When I came here I was told there were well over 300 people shortlisted and they had to choose one and they chose me,” said the 24-year-old. “It’s actually a great opportunity to learn and improve and I feel like a lot of people have the same potential as me so it’s a great privilege for me to have it.”
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) is a scheme sponsored by the Government’s Department for International Development. It is designed to support innovators and leaders of the future from across the Commonwealth while attracting outstanding talent to Britain’s universities.
After completing his undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences Education at the University of Education, in Winneba, Ghana, Samuel became a teaching and research assistant as part of his national service, supporting lectures, tutorials and field trips.
Wanting to study in the UK, he found out about the scholarship programme and chose Worcester based on its achievements. This is Samuel’s first time outside of Ghana.
The Scholarship pays for Samuel’s fees, while the University provides accommodation and pays a stipend to cover Samuel’s living expenses.
In future he would like to take his skills back to Ghana in a bid to improve health in rural areas.
“I want to improve lives for others so that others from poor backgrounds have the opportunities to become the best they can be,” he said. “I can make improvements in Ghana because I’ll have the support and expertise. Without the expertise I can’t change much. I feel like this wouldn’t be possible without my studies so I’m grateful to the Commission and the 国产视频.”
Samuel has already taken on a part-time officer role in the Students’ Union, and will be joining the Students’ Union President and Vice President at this year’s NUS (National Union of Students) Conference at the end of March.
国产视频 Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost, Professor Sarah Greer, said: “I was delighted to meet Samuel and welcome him formally to the 国产视频, and also to hear about his plans for the future. The Commonwealth Scholarship scheme allows us to open up opportunities to learn here in Worcester to students from across the globe. This helps us in our commitment to ensuring that every student at Worcester has the chance to make the very best of their potential.”