Scholarships for Haitian University Students

Thanks to your support, scholarship students at the University of Fondwa continue to make important progress both in their studies and in their contributions to rural Haiti.

This quarter, three graduating students successfully completed their thesis research projects. Two women and one man conducted field-based studies focused on agriculture and environmental sustainability in the Fondwa region. Their research explored topics including bean nodulation under local growing conditions, soil fertility and acidity, and the impact of Terra Preta soil structure on crop performance. These projects reflect the University’s commitment to practical, community-centered learning that addresses real challenges facing rural farmers.

Students across the University also completed midterm examinations in a wide range of courses, including Soil Sciences and Conservation, Crop Production and Innovation, Phytopathology and Crop Protection, Agroecology and Water Management, Zoonotic Diseases and Public Health, Supply Chain Management, French, and Research Methodology. Academic standards remain rigorous, preparing students for careers in agronomy, veterinary medicine, and business management while equipping them to become leaders in their communities.

The University also celebrated an important milestone in January when 42 students graduated from its Agronomy, Business, and Veterinary Medicine schools. For scholarship recipients and their families, graduation represents years of perseverance and the opportunity to apply their knowledge in service of rural development and economic opportunity.

Beyond the classroom, students had opportunities to develop leadership and entrepreneurial skills. The University hosted the second edition of its student debate competition, encouraging participants to strengthen their communication, critical thinking, and teamwork abilities.

On May 1, the campus also welcomed students, alumni, and local entrepreneurs for a Local Product Showcase featuring products made in the region. Visitors explored food products, handmade goods, and small business ventures developed by current students and graduates.

Together, these activities offered a powerful reminder that education at Fondwa is closely connected to community life. Education at Fondwa does not pull young people away from rural Haiti—it equips them to build there. Students are not only earning degrees; they are developing the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to create livelihoods, strengthen local economies, and expand opportunity in the communities they call home.

Your support makes all of this possible. By investing in scholarships, you are helping talented young Haitians access higher education while developing the leadership, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial skills needed to help rural Haiti thrive. Thank you for standing with these students as they pursue their dreams and build a brighter future for their communities.

Links:

• Get the latest news from Fondwa on our website.

From Opportunity to Impact: Scholarships Expanding Access at the University of Fondwa

In rural Haiti, talent is everywhere — but access to higher education is not. Scholarships at the University of Fondwa are changing that, opening doors for students who are ready to learn, lead, and strengthen their communities.

Quarterly Update

This quarter, we are grateful to share continued progress at the University of Fondwa (UNIF), where scholarship support is making higher education possible for students who might otherwise never have the opportunity.

Today, 244 students are enrolled at UNIF — 100 women and 144 men — and 225 of them are studying on a full-tuition scholarship. Most come from rural families where the cost of university would be out of reach. With financial barriers removed, these students can focus fully on their studies and prepare for meaningful careers.

Expanding access for young women remains an important part of this work. One hundred women are currently enrolled, building skills and credentials that open doors to economic independence, leadership, and greater opportunity in communities where higher education for women has historically been limited.

Preparing Professionals for Rural Haiti

UNIF’s academic programs are intentionally designed to meet the needs of rural communities. Students are pursuing degrees in:

• Agronomy — improving food production and agricultural resilience
• Business Administration — supporting small enterprises and local economic growth
• Veterinary Medicine — expanding animal health services for families who depend on livestock

This model creates a powerful pathway: Access to higher education → Practical training → Skilled professionals → Stronger rural communities

Celebrating a Milestone

This year, UNIF celebrated a new class of graduates during a ceremony marking the university’s anniversary. Surrounded by faculty, families, and community members, these graduates completed years of demanding academic work and hands-on training.

Each graduate represents more than a personal achievement. Many will return to their home regions with skills that strengthen local economies, improve food security, and expand opportunity for others who will follow.

Looking Ahead

With 244 students currently enrolled, the pipeline of future graduates remains strong. Each year, new students arrive from underserved communities, bringing determination, talent, and a deep commitment to giving back.

Your support ensures that financial barriers do not stand in the way of their potential — and helps build a growing network of educated leaders working to strengthen rural Haiti.

Thank you for investing not only in individual students, but in the long-term future of their families, their communities, and their country.

Links:

• Check out our latest Annual Report