Creating a more equal society by Ruth

Thanks to donor support, the University’s Equity and Merit Programme can continue to offer opportunities to the best and brightest students from some of the world’s poorest communities, so that they can bring positive change to their home countries.

Ruth’s story

My desire is to help transform the lives of under-served communities, particularly the lives of women and girls in my home country of Ethiopia.

I am currently studying International Development with a focus on poverty and inequality at the Global Development Institute here at Manchester. My studies focus on understanding social development challenges and how to address them.

In Ethiopia, I worked in the communications field managing campaigns to alleviate the social and health challenges faced by women in rural parts of the country. This provided me with an in-depth view of the entrenched social inequalities that exist within Ethiopian society.

Passionate about gender equality

I had always been passionate about gender equality, and my experience working on these projects urged me to take an active role to help create a more just and equitable society in Ethiopia.

My time here in Manchester has already allowed me to develop a critical perspective regarding contemporary social and political issues, and the experience and education I have gained since I arrived has been invaluable.

The diversity at Manchester

One of the things I have enjoyed the most about being in Manchester is the diversity at the University. It has allowed me to experience so many cultures while still being in one place. The level of exposure and learning opportunities available to me, not just in terms of course modules but also through my interaction with professors and other students – many of whom have come here from various corners of the world – has been incomparable.

I have also been struck by the friendliness and hospitality of the people in Manchester. It is such a vibrant and lively city, and has very much come to feel like a home away from home. Everywhere I have gone, I have felt welcomed. It has truly been a pleasure to live here this year.

New possibilities

The knowledge I have gained at the University has been tremendous. My time here has broadened my perspective and provided me with opportunities that I dare say wouldn't have been possible had I not received this scholarship.

I am well aware that there are many others who would do anything to have the same opportunities that I have been so graciously given. I am so grateful to have the chance to be here. Thank you.

Ruth receives an Alan Gilbert Memorial Equity and Merit Scholarship.