Applications for the 2024/25 funding for the Education Maintenance Allowance and University Bursary schemes in Tower Hamlets are now open.
The two schemes were introduced by Tower Hamlets Council in 2022 to reduce the financial barriers associated with further education, providing students with a helping hand to pursue their next steps.
The Education Maintenance Allowance is a £600 payment (an increase from last year’s £400) to eligible students to support them with their studies for the 2024/25 academic year.
The University Bursary Award is a £1,500 payment to eligible students to support them with costs associated with their undergraduate studies, including accommodation, books and resources.
Since launching in 2022, the council has funded 2,350 grants totalling £1.82million.
This year’s grants will benefit up to 2,050 students.
Applications close on 11 November 2024 and should be submitted on the council website.
Adam Ghalem received the Education Maintenance Allowance last year. He said:
“The Tower Hamlets EMA has benefited me financially as it allowed me to purchase books and materials to help me achieve better grades on my business course.”
Halima Khatun received the University Bursary last year. She said:
“The Tower Hamlets Mayor’s University Bursary helped me tremendously during my final, and most stressful, year at the London School of Economics (LSE).
“Thanks to the bursary I was able to take on fewer hours at my part-time job and used that time to focus on my studies.
“I highly encourage everyone who could benefit from the support to apply.”
Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“I am very proud of our Education Maintenance Allowance and University Bursary schemes, which provide vital financial support to students who may be struggling with the costs associated with pursuing further education.
“The schemes have had a positive take-up and impact since launching two years ago and I am pleased that we are able to support even more students this year.”
Cllr Maium Talukdar, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Education, Youth and Lifelong Learning, said:
“Everyone should have an equal chance for an excellent education, irrespective of their financial circumstances.
“The Education Maintenance Allowance and University Bursary help students reach their full potential by alleviating economic pressures so they can focus on their learning.”
Posted on Monday 30th September 2024