TasTAFE Nursing student wins Ueno award

A TasTAFE nursing student who juggles study with work, family commitments and volunteering has been recognised for her commitment to study and contribution to the community.

Blessing Bola OJO today received the Ueno Award - an annual recognition of a TasTAFE international student’s commitment to their studies and involvement in campus and community life.

The award honours former student, Hidetaka Ueno, who passed away during his studies in Tasmania in 1998. Mr Ueno’s parents made a donation to support a perpetual award for an outstanding international student.

Blessing is an international student from Nigeria who is studying the Diploma of Nursing at TasTAFE’s Alanvale Campus.

Presenting Blessing with her award at Alanvale Campus today, TasTAFE Executive Director - Quality and Academic Services, Lyndene Bowen, said Blessing was a deserving recipient.

“Blessing’s teacher, Jayne Williams, nominated her due to her enthusiasm and dedication to her nursing course. She described her commitment as ‘truly inspiring.”

“A mother of two boys, Blessing lives in Ulverstone and travels weekly to attend classes, never being late for a single session.

“Blessing’s teachers and classmates describe her as warm, approachable, and always smiling. She actively participates in role-play tasks, shares her study tips, and even leads a study group, always ready to support her classmates.

“Outside of study, Blessing volunteers at The Lounge in Ulverstone, supporting women with mental health challenges. She is an active member of the local church, assists with the Under-9s at the Ulverstone Soccer Club, and is a valued member of the welfare arm of the Nigerian community in Tasmania,” Ms Bowen said.

Blessing says these roles help her develop empathy and build character.

“Though not directly related to my studies, these activities make me a better person, which I believe is just as important,” Blessing said.

The runners up for the 2024 Ueno award are:

• Parbat Humangin – Diploma of Nursing
• Ushani Ushani Prabuddhika Madagedara – Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care

Ms Bowen said TasTAFE was proud to support the Ueno award.

“International students bring so much to our campuses and help make TasTAFE a place that is socially and culturally diverse and enriching for everyone.”