FCA and UNHCR-Supported Refugee Students Graduate from Universities in Italy

Three years ago, they shared their thoughts on uncertainty, hope and the fear of leaving for a distant country to pursue their studies. Last month, their journey reached an important milestone in Italy.

A journey that started with big dreams

In 2023, I interviewed a group of refugee students preparing to leave Uganda for Italy under the University Corridors for Refugees (UNICORE) programme.

Some were excited. Others were nervous about travelling so far from home, adjusting to a new culture, and studying in a foreign language.

But one thing stood out in every conversation: they carried big dreams.

Finn Church Aid (FCA), in partnership with UNHCR, supported 30 refugee students from settlements including Rwamwanja, Kyangwali, Kyaka II, Bidibidi, Kiryandongo, Palabek, Adjumani, Palorinya and Kampala to pursue master’s degrees in Italian universities.

Read their departure story here:
https://www.kirkonulkomaanapu.fi/en/latest-news/news/fca-uganda-and-unhcr-award-30-scholarships-for-refugees-to-study-in-italy/

Graduation milestones begin

Graduation has now begun in phases, with 12 students graduating in early May 2026, while the remaining students are expected to graduate in the coming days across different universities in Italy.

Muheto Billy, graduate of LUISS Guido Carli, Rome, Master’s in International Relations.

Teresa Dominic, graduate of Università di Milano, Master’s in Marketing and Global Management.

More than an academic milestone

For many of them, the journey to Italy was about more than education. It was about proving to themselves and others that displacement does not define their future.

“Having stayed in Rwamwanja refugee settlement, I witnessed the hardships there and wanted to change that for my community,” said Umwari Joviale, who graduated with a Master’s in International Accounting and Management from Siena University.

“Now I have started a Community Based Organization and opened three Early Childhood Development centres in Rwamwanja refugee settlement, supporting 640 children to return to school. I have been able to achieve this because of the support I received through the programme.”

Others spoke about rediscovering hope through education.

“When you flee your country and start life in another, the dream of attaining an education can feel distant. But scholarship opportunities like the UNICORE programme give you hope, and you begin to see that the dreams you once held are still achievable,” said Ongejuk Lolos Sereno, who graduated with a Master of Arts in Psychology.

Adjusting to a new environment

Their time in Italy also came with challenges. Many had to adapt to unfamiliar academic systems, new environments, and different languages while being far from their families and communities. Despite this, they persevered.

FCA supported the students throughout the process, from scholarship applications and visa guidance to pre-departure preparations and continued mentorship after arrival in Italy.

Xaviar Michael Taban, graduate of Università di Catania, Master’s in Global Politics and Euro-Mediterranean Relations.

A personal reflection from one of the graduates

“This journey has been deeply transformative for me. From my early academic path to pursuing this degree abroad, each step has shaped who I am today as an aspiring researcher.

I am sincerely grateful to my family, mentors, colleagues, friends, FCA, and UNHCR for their unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in me. This achievement reflects not only my effort, but also the strength of the community that stood with me throughout the journey,” said Shumbusho Esdras, who graduated with a Master of Science in Molecular Biology from the University of Padova.

Looking back

As I reflect on those first interviews before their departure, it is remarkable to see how far the students have come. The uncertainty in their voices has now been replaced with confidence, experience, and clearer direction for the future.

Luate Peter (L), graduate of the University of Parma, Master’s in Food Safety and Food Risk Management.

Some hope to return and support their communities. Others are pursuing careers, research opportunities, and mentorship roles. All of them now carry stories that challenge common perceptions about refugees and what becomes possible when education is accessible.

Richard Joseph, graduate of Università di Bari, MSc in Innovation and Development in Agri-Food Systems.

At a time when refugee needs continue to rise amid declining humanitarian funding, their graduation is a reminder that investing in refugee education creates lasting impact far beyond the classroom.

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Text & Images: Linda Kabuzire & Rose Awien / FCA