The founder of a scheme which helps asylum seekers and forced migrants to get a university education has praised Keele’s contribution in making the scheme a success.

Dr Rebecca Murray, the founder and director of the Article 26 project, spoke highly of her partnership with Keele University as she accepted an honorary degree for her outstanding contribution to supporting forced migrants and asylum seekers to access and participate in higher education.

Dr Murray, who was made an Honorary Doctor of the University, said: “To receive this honorary degree is a huge honour. It is particularly meaningful given the relationship we have with Keele in terms of the work we have done.”

Dr Murray said that she was inspired to establish the Article 26 project due to the ‘transformative’ effect that higher education has had on her own life, adding that she wanted to make those opportunities available for everyone.

But she added that anyone can make a similar difference to society, saying: “University really did change the way that I see things so for anyone not to be able to engage in that is hugely unjust. That was a personal motivation for me, but the key to the success of the work that I have done is responding to the needs of people that want to go into higher education.

“I think the key to wanting to make any kind of change, fundamentally, is that you need to listen to the people you are working for.”

During her acceptance speech at the graduation ceremony Dr Murray added her thanks to Keele University for its help in making the Article 26 project a success, saying: “Universities are incredible institutions, and I am proud to work with so many such as Keele, who reject the agenda of exclusion and seek to include some of the most marginalised groups in society.

“So I would like to thank Keele University, for those who have gained scholarships at Keele exceeded academically, and paved the way for future students to be able to take up opportunities within this institution.”