A life-changing commitment
Almost 10,000 kms away, the lives of more than 100 children have been changed forever – thanks to the support of CQUniversity Australia.
That number will now be even greater after the University re-affirmed its commitment to supporting the New Delhi-based Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT) through to 2028.
“CQUniversity has proudly supported Salaam Baalak for more than 13 years, and it is our great honour to continue that partnership by providing street children with access to higher education through financial scholarships,” Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said.
For many children, the streets were their only home until SBT offered them a chance for a new life.
“Despite the physical distance of our University and Salaam Baalak, our efforts are more far-reaching than just the immediate children we have assisted,” Professor Klomp said.
Karan is one of the many examples of how CQUniversity, through SBT, has changed lives in India.
After losing his mother and being abandoned by his father at the age of 11, Karan was placed in one of SBT’s children's homes for boys.
However, despite his challenging start, Karan excelled academically while attending non-formal education programs.
Recognising his potential, the staff at SBT facilitated his enrolment in a reputable English medium school and after completing his secondary education, Karan secured admission into the B Voc. program in Child Protection at Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), supported by CQUniversity.
Karan completed his undergraduate degree and has now been accepted into a Masters program in Education.
He aspires to build a career in the educational field, driven by his dedication to making a meaningful impact on young lives.
“Karan’s story is incredible and is one of the many we have heard whose lives have been changed completely as a result of this really meaningful partnership that we are proud to have with Salaam Baalak Trust," Professor Klomp said.
Professor Klomp said the University had a very special and longstanding affinity with India and the South Asia region, having welcomed more than 28,000 students from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka over the past 20 years.
“This is just one small way we can give back to the communities in country.”
