New scholarship honours victims of tragedy and supports students who carry forward their legacy

August 23, 2023

News

OTTAWA—Universities Canada is pleased to announce the establishment of the Flight 302 Legacy Award that aims to pay tribute to the victims of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 tragedy. This scholarship program will provide vital support to Canadian and international students pursuing higher education in accredited colleges and universities in Canada. 

The Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 tragedy, which occurred March 10, 2019, near Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, affected people worldwide. The devastating incident claimed the lives of all 157 passengers on board, representing 35 nationalities, including 18 Canadian citizens, permanent residents and individuals with strong ties to Canada. Many of the passengers were en route to Nairobi to participate in the United Nations environmental conference, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on our planet. 

The Flight 302 Legacy Award has been established to honour these individuals. This program aims to extend their legacy by supporting fields of study that resonate with their interests and passions, particularly in the fields of environmental preservation and humanitarian efforts.

Transport Canada is providing $2.5 million from the Commemorative Fund for the Victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Tragedy to support the scholarship program over a five-year period. This contribution will make a profound impact on students as they pursue their academic careers. 

The Flight 302 Legacy Award will grant 42 non-renewable scholarships annually for the first four years of the program and increase to 44 in the fifth year. Each scholarship is valued at $10,000 CAD, providing invaluable financial assistance to recipients as they pursue their educational journey. 

The application process will open Wednesday, September 13, 2023, and will close Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Details can be found on Universities Canada’s website.

About Universities Canada
Universities Canada is the voice of Canada’s universities at home and abroad, advancing higher education, research and innovation for the benefit of all Canadians.

Media contact:

Lisa Wallace
Assistant Director, Communications
Universities Canada
[email protected]

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