“UoPeople’s Tuition-Free Online Programs Made It Possible for Me to Continue My Education from a Refugee Camp,” says Sawyedul A.

From a small riverside village in western Myanmar to the world’s largest refugee settlement in Bangladesh, Sawyedul A. has built a life defined by resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of education. 

Born in Nga Yant Chaung—a quiet village along the Mayu River in Buthid Aung Township of Rakhine State, Myanmar—Sawyedul grew up surrounded by tradition, community, and the gentle rhythms of rural life. “My childhood was full of cultural traditions, family gatherings, and the everyday joys of a simple life,” he recalls. However, life in Rakhine State was marked by political instability, and schools frequently shut down. “I often studied in informal community settings, but those experiences taught me resilience, patience, and most importantly, the importance of education.” 

For the Rohingya community, discrimination and exclusion had long been realities. But in 2017, military operations escalated into violence that forced hundreds of thousands—including Sawyedul and his family—to flee Myanmar. Their 20-day journey to safety in Bangladesh was harrowing and life-changing.  

Today, he lives in the sprawling refugee settlements of Cox’s Bazar, near the Kutupalong refugee camp, the largest refugee camp in the world. “Living in the camps has been challenging,” he says, “yet it has instilled in me resilience, hope, and a strong sense of responsibility toward my community.” 

Even amid these difficulties, his commitment to education never faltered. Through online research and conversations with his elder brother, Maung, a UoPeople alum—Sawyedul discovered a way forward. “UoPeople’s tuition-free, fully online degree programs made it possible for me to continue higher education despite living in a refugee camp,” he explains. 

Sawyedul is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at UoPeople, while simultaneously studying Statistics and Data Science at Parami University. Balancing two academic programs while living at a refugee camp requires immense discipline, but he sees it as essential to building the technical and analytical skills he hopes to use in youth-led and community-based initiatives. 

Sawyedul’s experience at UoPeople has been transformative. “The online format, supportive instructors, and international peer community have enabled me to learn effectively despite challenges. I often encourage others from marginalized backgrounds to consider studying at UoPeople. This university is a great option for everyone—especially for Rohingya students and first-generation refugee learners.” 

Sawyedul particularly enjoys the hands-on, problem-solving nature of computer science education at UoPeople. “I enjoy the problem-solving aspects of data analysis,” he says, adding that online learning has strengthened his independence, self-discipline, and time management. 

Outside of academics, Sawyedul is a writer, photographer, and community advocate. He has published two books, using writing to express himself and to document Rohingya experiences. Photography allows him to preserve cultural moments and raise awareness about his people’s struggles. As the Founder and Executive Director of the Rohingya Inspiration Network (RIN), he leads youth empowerment initiatives and supports advocacy for justice, dignity, and opportunity. 

His vision for the future is deeply rooted in service. “I aim to support the Rohingya community, document our stories, preserve our culture, and amplify our voices on a global stage.” He dreams of a future where Rohingya people can return safely to their homeland with access to education and the chance to rebuild their lives. 

Balancing studies, advocacy, leadership, writing, and family responsibilities can be demanding, but Sawyedul’s motivation remains unwavering. “My journey has been one of resilience, hope, and a commitment to education. Every step I take brings me closer to my dream of making a difference in the world.” 

Sawyedul’s story stands as a powerful testament to courage, learning, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. We’re thrilled to see him pursue his big dreams and wish him the very best in all he sets out to achieve.