Southwark pays university fees for local students

Southwark Council said that with tuition fees rising to as much as £9,000 a year from next year after the government axed funding, the cost of going to university was becoming a significant deterrent to pupils and parents in the area.

Following a rigorous interview process, the council has now agreed to pay the full tuition fees for six local students from its scholarship fund for the duration of their course. The council will run a similar scheme for people entering university next year and the following year.

The council will spend more than £20,000 in 2011/12 to pay for the scheme rising to £150,000 in 2013/14.

It comes at a time when a survey suggests that one in ten students studying for A-levels are being putt off university because of the increase in tuition fees next year.

Today the students - who have each received scholarships for their full fees - told how the council's financial support meant they could concentrate on their studies rather than worry about debt.

Dominique Manshadi, 18, who is studying maths at Queen Mary, University of London, said: "I couldn't believe that I received the scholarship. It showed how much Southwark were willing to help young people who want to do positive things and improve their lives. This money means that I can devote a lot more time to my studies and continue to do the work that I love and enjoy in the community."

Maureen Nakiboneka, 19, who is studying accounting and finance at Brunel University, said: "It came as a shock to me when I received a letter saying that I had been granted a scholarship by my local council. Knowing that I'll be free from debt when I graduate from university brings a peace in my heart that I cannot explain."

Frank Yaw-Owusu, 18, who is studying law at King's College London, said: "This support has opened doors and opportunities for me. It has allowed me to become a man of value and a positive young role model for all people. I would like to thank Southwark Council for giving me the chance to become a better person.

Sahyma Shaid-Hussain, 18, who is studying sociology with criminology at City University, said: "Receiving the scholarship money means that I feel less stress and pressure and I can excel in my studies. I can now consider doing more higher education qualifications such as a masters and I have the confidence and self-belief that I can achieve good things and make something of myself."

Bobby Bailey, 19, who is studying accounting and finance at the University of Kent, said: "It's overwhelming to receive such a great amount of money for being part of the community and also a huge relief to have my tuition fees paid off. I have lived in Southwark for over 10 years and it is an honour to call this borough my home."

William Camfield, 18, who is studying Economics at Sussex University, said: "I would like to thank Southwark Council for offering me this scholarship, I feel very lucky and privileged. This award will make life so much easier for me as a big financial weight has been lifted and I will leave university with a lot less debt than previously anticipated.

Catherine McDonald, Southwark's cabinet member for children's services, said: "Students in Southwark have told us that the forthcoming hike in tuition fees and the cutting of the education maintenance allowance presents significant issues for many of those who wish to go to university.

"So I am delighted that we will be funding the full tuition fees for six great students starting this year and for others starting in future years. Southwark has many talented and hard-working students and we are actively investing in our young people so they can reach their full potential."

Ten applicants were initially selected for interview before the council chose the final six to receive the funding. Each applicant was assessed on their financial status, academic achievement and contribution to the local community through sport, volunteering or faith groups.

The median average family income in Southwark is £17,000.

In August Southwark's A-level students achieved their best A* to A grades to date. Nearly 70% of the exams resulted in A* - C grades and 95% resulted in A* - E grades.