International student drives change in education and social justice
An international postgraduate student from Uganda is making a significant impact through her studies at the University of Chester and advocacy for vulnerable children and young people, both in the UK and her home country.
Milly Akello, is currently studying on the MA Social Justice and Globalisation in Education programme (renamed MA Education, Children and Social Justice from September 2026). Her journey reflects a deep commitment to driving meaningful change through education, research and practice.
A Commonwealth Scholarship recipient, Milly’s academic and professional achievements have distinguished her as an exceptional student and emerging leader in the field of education and social justice. With a background in Social Work from Ndejje University, Uganda, she has dedicated her career to supporting children and families facing complex challenges.
Before moving to the UK, Milly worked as a Client and Academic Coordinator and as a Child and Family Practitioner in an orphanage. There she supported children who were orphaned, abandoned, living with HIV/AIDS or displaced.
Reflecting on this experience, Milly said: “Support is not only about meeting immediate needs; it is about restoring dignity, creating hope and helping children believe in their own future.”
Alongside her postgraduate studies, Milly continues to apply her skills in practice, working part-time with organisations and schools supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Her roles as a SEND Support Worker and Teaching Assistant have strengthened her commitment to inclusive education and holistic support, while opening further opportunities across social care, youth work and community services.
Milly chose her MA to deepen her understanding of inequality, exclusion and young people who have faced significant disadvantage and trauma to develop the skills required to drive meaningful change. She described the course as “inspiring, challenging and deeply rewarding,” particularly valuing its focus on real-world issues and its emphasis on critical reflection, inclusion and social justice.
Her dissertation research focuses on friendships and belonging among young people aged 16–18 who have grown up in a Ugandan orphanage. By centring their voices, Milly aims to contribute valuable, contextually grounded insights that are often missing from global academic literature.
She said: “The course has helped me feel that my experiences matter, my voice matters and that education and research can be a tool for transformation.”
Looking ahead, Milly plans to progress to doctoral study, with ambitions to build a career spanning research, advocacy and practice. She is particularly passionate about increasing African-led research and ensuring that policies and support systems reflect and support the lived realities of children across the continent.
She added: “This postgraduate degree is giving me the tools to turn my vision into something practical and achievable. I want my work to contribute to stronger policies and more relevant research for children and families across Africa.”
Dr Paula Hamilton, Course Leader for MA Education, Children and Social Justice, praised Milly’s achievements. She said: “Milly has been a truly inspirational student and a very deserving Commonwealth Scholar. She has engaged fully with every aspect of her studies and is passionate about creating positive social change for vulnerable children and young people. Her research promises to offer valuable insights into relational care and practice, strengthening the support provided to extremely vulnerable children and young people. I am confident she has a bright future ahead.”