Bursaries awarded in memory of New Cross fire victims

Five Lewisham students have been presented with bursaries to help fund their studies in memory of the 14 young people who died as a result of the New Cross fire of 1981.

Now in its twelfth year, the New Cross Bursary Awards support a small group of outstanding young people from Lewisham who study at Goldsmiths, University of London.

At an awards ceremony held at Goldsmiths on 25 March, Liam Islam, studying for a BA in history and politics, Lucy Trotter, studying for a BA in history, Kamal Keita-Jones, studying for a BSc in computer science, Kashan Riley, studying for a BA in education, culture and society, and Ketsia Mukobo, studying for a BA in politics and international relations, each received £4,500 towards the cost of their undergraduate courses.

Since 2007, Lewisham Council has given more than £270,000 in bursaries, so students can focus on their studies. Goldsmiths also waives the tuition fees for ten students from Lewisham.

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, said: “Our bursary supports young people who otherwise may not be able to go to university. With the average student debt now £50,000 it’s a huge barrier to many Lewisham families. The bursary was set up to remember the victims of the New Cross fire and ensure a positive legacy came from the tragedy. We couldn’t do it without the support of Goldsmiths and the victims’ families, and I thank them both for all their support.”

Patrick Loughrey, Warden of Goldsmiths, University of London, said: “I am very proud to award these bursaries to Liam, Lucy, Kamal, Kashan, and Ketsia in memory of those who died 38 years ago. It seems fitting that to ensure the loss of these young lives is not forgotten we are supporting these five talented young people from our community to study at Goldsmiths, to succeed, and to go on and pursue their dreams.”