Six Arkansas universities, including the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), have awarded 25 scholarships to Rwandan students pursuing different science courses.

According to Newswise, the young Rwandans arrived in Little Rock on May 23 to begin a summer of intensive English language study at UALR. 

They will later, start a four-year quest to earn degrees as Rwanda’s future mathematicians, scientists, engineers and computer specialists.

"We know the people of Arkansas will open their hearts to these bright young people who have struggled to learn while enduring hardships most of us cannot imagine,” Newswise quotes Charles Donaldson, the vice chancellor of educational services and student services.

In April, Donaldson led a team of UALR administrators, as well as representatives of Hendrix College on a trip to Rwanda to select the 25 students.

Following a summer in intensive English language training, 10 of the students will enrol at UALR, six will attend Hendrix College, and four will attend Harding University. Two each will attend Philander Smith College and Wofford College in Oklahoma and one at Ouachita Baptist University.

UALR and the other participating schools signed a memorandum of understanding with government providing that Rwanda will pay student expenses such as housing and books. Each participating university will offer a tuition scholarship.

"As part of our commitment to the global community, UALR is offering scholarships to these students,” said Donaldson "These scholarships will not impact the scholarships we normally offer.”

Since their arrival in the US, the students have undergone orientation, and started intensive English classes. The International Friendship Organization (IFO) of Central Arkansas helped them to adjust to the new environment.

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