Facens University Center believes that one of the most powerful and lasting ways to generate impact in people’s lives is through education. In 2024, 113 employees benefited from undergraduate scholarships, and 103 from postgraduate scholarships. In addition, we participate in a scholarship program for migrants and refugees in partnership with the NGO Refúgio 343. In 2024, we began offering five undergraduate scholarships. Currently, we have three students enrolled in the programs of Electrical Engineering, Production Engineering, and Technology in Systems Analysis and Development.
Christ Samba, who chose Electrical Engineering, previously lived in Congo, then moved to Niterói (RJ), and since the first semester of 2024 has been living in Sorocaba (SP) to attend classes in person. “It is a welcoming city, and here we receive all the support we need. This spot represents hope for me, an opportunity to change my life. I strongly believe in the importance of a diploma to enter the job market and seek opportunities in the career I chose. We have great professors, access to modern and well-equipped laboratories, and I know that once I graduate, I will be able to follow my dream,” says the student.
In addition to Christ, Kevine Bibotou, born in Gabon, is living in Sorocaba and studying Production Engineering. Karla Barrios, born in Venezuela, is pursuing a degree in Technology in Systems Analysis and Development through Distance Learning (EAD) and lives with her parents in Curitiba (PR).
The Higher Education Scholarship Program of Refúgio 343 focuses on the inclusion, integration, and retention of refugees and migrants in universities. According to Leonardo Tavares, Operations Coordinator of Refúgio 343: “This enables their access to better job opportunities and enhances diversity and interculturality in the spaces they occupy. The partnership with Facens made it possible to offer placements in Engineering and Systems Analysis and Development programs. Weknow that engineering professionals rank first in Brazil’s list of bestpaying careers, so we believe that our scholarship recipients will achieve professional success in our country. We thank Facens for this important partnership.”
To learn more aboutthe partnership withthe NGO Refúgio 343.
Testimonial from student Karla:
Karla Alejandra Acosta Barrios,
Venezuelan migrant and 3rd-semester student of Technology in Systems Analysis and Development (EAD).
“These first three semesters at Facens have been a transformative experience. From the beginning, I realized that this opportunity would be much more than just studying—it would be an important step toward changing my professional life.”
During this time, I have learned many new things and started to understand more clearly which area of technology truly interests and excites me. This has motivated me to keep learning and striving to grow more and more.
I have met amazing people—professors and friends who have been part of this journey. Studying in such a welcoming environment, with so many dedicated people, makes all the difference.
Refúgio has been a fundamental support throughout this process. The monthly tutoring sessions and the team’s willingness to help show how much they care about our progress. Knowing that I am not alone on this path gives me greater security and confidence.
The Canvas platform has also helped me a lot in keeping up with classes and organizing my studies. The Distance Learning (EAD) format has been essential for me, as it allowed me to balance work and college in a practical way.
Honestly, I never imagined I would have access to such high-quality education. This opportunity is changing my reality and making me believe even more in my potential. I am certain that this experience will open many doors, both in my professional and personal life.
Without a doubt, these first semesters were just the beginning of something much greater. I continue with gratitude, determination, and the will to make the most of everything Facens has to offer.
Welcoming students’ needs is essential to ensuring full access to education. For this reason, the Psychopedagogical Guidance Center (NAP) plays a key role in supporting students, minimizing gaps in their academic journey, and opening doors for their future. Between August 2024 and March 2025, 31 students received assistance.
