A Nigerian student in Derry has said he was inspired to work in medicine because of his "painful experiences" as a sickle cell disease carrier.
Chukwuka Frank Nwanonenyi (known as Frank) is a 36-year-old living in Derry who was the first recipient of a new asylym seeker scholarship at the North West Regional College.
He is celebrating this week graduating from his adult learning course and has enrolled for a foundation degree in applied and medical science.
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“I always wanted a career in health because of the painful experiences I went through as a sickle cell disease carrier, a serious and lifelong health condition," he said. "People with sickle cell disease are not sure what their life expectancy is. As a survivor, I want to work with people who have the same or a similar condition. I want to thank NWRC and the North West Migrants Forum (NWMF) who have helped support me on this journey.”
He added: “I am so proud to be graduating from NWRC. Since I moved here from Nigeria I have received fantastic support from the staff and lecturers at the college who have helped me achieve my dream. My plan is to keep studying and go on to a career in the Health and Science sector."
Gillian Moss, Head of Client Services at NWRC said: “We are very proud to see Frank graduate from his course. Not only has Frank been an excellent student but he is a familiar face around the college and has made friends and formed relationships with other students and staff. We are even happier to know that Frank is staying on at NWRC and continuing studying for the next two years. We are excited about what the future holds for Frank.
“The NWRC Asylum Seeker Scholarship supports the studies of an Asylum seeker through the NWMF with the right to study as part of their immigration status. We are continuing with the scholarship and hope to announce the 2024 recipients very soon. NWRC looks forward to continuing to support all students in our inclusive learning environment which supports learners from a range of backgrounds and experiences.”
Chief Executive of the North West Migrants Forum, Lilian Seenoi Barr, said: “It gives us immense pride to see Frank reach this milestone. We know how hard he has worked and the struggles he has faced in getting to this point.
“In being the first asylum seeker to receive a scholarship from North West Regional College, Frank has blazed a trail. We wish him well as he continues along the path to his chosen career and we look forward to seeing those who come after him achieve their goals and ambitions.
“We also want to commend North West Regional College for its ongoing commitment to supporting individuals who have arrived on these shores with very little, often fleeing war, persecution and natural disaster.
“It is a partnership forged from mutual understanding and we look forward to it continuing long into the future.”
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English (United States) ·