AfrAsia Foundation Celebrates Its New Graduates: Honoring the Educational Journey of Young Students

"The Children’s University program, supported by the University of Adelaide, has a simple yet powerful mission: to inspire young minds to explore, discover, and learn in exciting and innovative ways," stated Her Excellency Kate Chamley, High Commissioner of Australia.

 

On Saturday, 5th April, the AfrAsia Foundation proudly celebrated the achievements of its young students during the Children’s University AfrAsia Foundation (CUAF) graduation ceremony at the Institut Français de Maurice in Rose-Hill. The event was graced by the presence of Her Excellency Mrs. Kate Chamley, High Commissioner of Australia. Graduates, their families, educational partners, and NGO representatives committed to promoting academic excellence and personal development gathered to celebrate this milestone. Originally, 50 young participants joined the program, and 40 of them graduated, achieving an impressive success rate of 80%.

 

An Innovative Educational Initiative

 

Launched in Mauritius in 2022 in collaboration with the University of Adelaide, the Children’s University program follows the British model and has expanded internationally, with branches in New Zealand, Asia, and Africa. This pioneering program encourages extracurricular learning by sparking curiosity, strengthening academic skills, and developing vital cross-disciplinary abilities for the future of children.

 

The initiative operates on an attractive rewards system where children earn credits for each hour dedicated to educational activities, recorded in their "Learning Passport" with stamps. As they accumulate hours, ranging from 30 to 400, the children earn certificates that acknowledge their commitment, perseverance, and the acquisition of new skills.

 

An Emotional and Heartfelt Ceremony

 

The event began at 9:30 AM with an exhibition showcasing projects completed by CUAF students, reflecting their creativity and dedication. By 10:30 AM, guests gathered in the auditorium to hear official speeches, including an inspiring address from Her Excellency, Kate Chamley, Australian High Commissioner, who shared with the children: “There are no limits to what you can achieve. Your success today is a testament to your resilience and the power of education to transform lives.”

 

Alvin Peerthy, Senior Manager of Sustainability and CSR at the AfrAsia Foundation, highlighted: Through the Children’s University, the AfrAsia Foundation is committed to creating a future where every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, is empowered with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to thrive academically and pursue higher education. By fostering a lifelong love for learning, we are lighting the spark of potential within each child, paving the way for their success.

 

Representatives from the NGOs Safire and Lovebridge also spoke, emphasising the importance of alternative education in fostering independent and sustainable learning.

 

To add an artistic touch to the ceremony, performances by Ti Rayons de Soleil and Safire captivated the audience. The highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to the 40 new graduates, recognising their hard work and determination. A group photo captured the memorable moment, followed by a networking session.

 

Shaping the Future of Alternative Learning

 

In 2022, AfrAsia Foundation became the first organisation in the Indian Ocean region to launch the Children’s University AfrAsia Foundation (CUAF), in partnership with the University of Adelaide. The pilot phase, which involved 17 children aged 7 to 9 from less privileged backgrounds, was a resounding success, with 15 graduates in 2023. With this new class of 40 graduates in 2025, the program continues to grow and demonstrate its positive impact.

 

Ongoing observation of the participants reveals that when children engage in activities, they are passionate about, they show greater consistency and creativity. They take the initiative to conduct their own research, generate new ideas, display increased discipline, and develop their independence.