A 38-year-old Zimbabwean refugee who defied Robert Mugabe's regime received a prestigious Adult Learners' Award last night.

Sakile Mtombeni, a father-of-two, will graduate from a social work degree at the University of Bradford this summer. He was nominated by his tutor for an Adult Learners' Award, which he received during a special ceremony at Leeds Town Hall.

Mr Mtombeni came to England in 2000 from his native Zimbabwe where he trained and worked as a teacher.

Life had became difficult for him in his home country after he refused to take his class out of lessons to attend a political rally ordered by President Mugabe. He came to England seeking political asylum and a better life for himself and his family after standing up to the regime.

He said: "Moving to a new country and starting a new life is a big challenge. Initially you are simply trying to survive, but the bigger challenges are about reclaiming your confidence, self esteem and the ability to contribute fully to a new society and community.

"My studies have helped me acquire the skills and knowledge that will enable me to help other people in the community. It has changed my life."

Mr Mtombeni has achieved top grades in his degree work and has already secured a job in children's social work with Bradford Council.

His personal tutor, Ella Mistry-Jackson, a social work lecturer at the University of Bradford, said: "Sakile is a fantastic student who goes out of his way to support his course mates. I am delighted that he's been selected for an Adult Learners' Award."

The Adult Learners' Awards are part of Adult Learners' Week, which runs until Friday.

Organised by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), it aims to celebrate adult learning and raise awareness of learning for mature students.

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