In January 2026, we received this testimonial from a student, which illustrates the relevance of our support work in a very personal way.
"The Madam Courage scholarship plays a crucial role for single parents pursuing higher education amid structurally difficult conditions. For non-EU single parents in particular, this support is often the difference between continuing an academic path and abandoning it. Unlike EU citizens, non-EU students are generally not entitled to German or EU social welfare benefits, housing assistance, or family support schemes. This lack of access creates a level of vulnerability that is rarely visible but profoundly shapes everyday life and academic possibilities.
As a non-EU single parent, I carried full responsibility for my child, my studies, and my financial survival without the protection of state safety nets. The Madam Courage scholarship was therefore not simply a scholarship; it functioned as essential support that made studying possible at all. It enabled me to remain enrolled, complete all required courses, earn my academic credits, and make substantial progress toward my degree while managing caregiving responsibilities on my own.
Financial insecurity is one of the most significant barriers single parents face in higher education. Constant uncertainty affects not only material conditions but also concentration, emotional resilience, and the ability to plan academically. By easing this pressure, Madam Courage created the stability necessary for sustained academic work. Instead of focusing on daily survival, I could focus on learning, research, and long-term goals.
The impact of the grant extended beyond my own academic progress. For my child, it meant a more stable home environment and a parent who could be emotionally present rather than overwhelmed by stress. Supporting a single parent, therefore, means supporting an entire family and investing in a child’s future at the same time.
Equally important was the message behind the grant. Madam Courage offered trust rather than judgment and recognised that academic paths are not linear, especially for those without institutional support. This trust strengthened my sense of dignity and motivation, allowing me to continue despite obstacles.
Looking ahead, my vision is not only to complete my degree and regain stability, but also to give back. Once I am in a stronger professional and financial position, I aspire to become a donor to Madam Courage myself. I want to support the very cause that sustained me, and to help ensure that other single parents—especially those excluded from public support systems—are not forced to abandon their education due to circumstance. Madam Courage represents a cycle of solidarity, and I hope to be part of that cycle in the future."
Family of T.
31.12.2025
Münster