Georgian College is responding to the current global refugee crisis by offering to cover the cost of tuition and text books for up to seven displaced Syrians.
President and CEO MaryLynn West-Moynes announced the new Georgian College Award for Refugees and Displaced Person. It will cover the costs for one refugee to study at each of Georgian's campuses, including Owen Sound.
The first students to qualify could start studies as soon as January 2016, depending on their program.
West Moynes says in the future, the award could be adapted to help students from other stricken countries.
The applicants must be Syrian citizens who have been accepted to a Georgian program. The award is renewable for each year of the chosen program as long as the student has good academic standing.
The college anticipates working with local community sponsors of Syrian refugees and other agencies in encouraging applications.
"This scholarship will support up to seven students affected by the events in Syria, covering the full cost of their studies and offering them a chance at a brighter future," said West-Moynes. "At Georgian, we believe education should be accessible to all – it can change lives and transform communities. Our hearts break for the millions forced to flee their homes, many separated from their families. We hope this award will offer a ray of hope to those who need it most."
