The money creates opportunities for African students
The scholarship is aimed at those from countries in Africa who want to come to the University of Gävle to study international social work. -The money gives a unique opportunity for people without sufficient financial resources to realize their dreams, says Malin Hillman international coordinator at the University of Gävle.
For Universities in Sweden receiving such large donations to make it easier for students from overseas countries is unique. – The offer from the fundation is unique and before we could even accept the money, we had to check all legal terms. We were happy for the students when we got words that it was ok, says Malin Hillman.
Unveiling of the portrait
Theresa's husband and family now live in Portugal, but Ebi Otsaye Ogionwo visited Gävle on Monday to be part of the unveiling of the portrait. On site were also friends and acquaintances from their time in Gävle, they were all there to share good memories.
- Theresa loved animals and people, a mother who studied during the day and took care of the family, says one of the women with whom the family lived when they first came to Sweden.
Damian O Eze worked as a priest in the Catholic Church in Gävle when Theresa lived here, and talked about her as a guardian angel who has done a lot of good in her life, and who, even now, will be able to help people thanks to the foundation. Her husband, Ebi, shared his thoughts of Theresa, the importance of loving your partner and living in the present.
– I have a sentimental and nostalgic view of Sweden and Gävle. One of our most beautiful moments together we had cycling around Gävle, says Ebi Otsaye Ogionwo.
Theresa’s relief work
– The photo represents who Theresa was, a thinker who always thought of others first, says Ebi Otsaye Ogionwo.
During her time in Gävle, she worked with RAPATAC, she was involved in starting the "Gävle meets Africa" festival in Gävle, which was also the first festival in northern Sweden focused on the culture that exists in Africa.
2016, When Theresa was in her final year in the International Sociology program at the University of Gävle, she started a non-profit organization, "Selfless", which would help victims of Boko Haram, as well as those who had become orphans due to AIDS.
– We want everyone to come and remember Theresa in September and talk about one of the most important things in her life, international social work, says Ebi Otsaye Ogionwo.
Annika Strömberg, Vice-Chancellor for Internationalization, also attended the meeting, as did Komalsingh Rambaree, senior lecturer in social work, who said a few words about Theresa.