Mozambican youth turns university rejection into shop
Margarida Pirilão opened a baking supply store near Maputo after failing to get into university.
Margarida Pirilão, 19, opened a shop selling baking supplies on the outskirts of Maputo after being rejected from university. The Portuguese organisation Helpo supported her venture in the Possulane neighbourhood of Marracuene, about 30 kilometres from the capital.
Pirilão aims to achieve her dream of being the first university graduate in her family, a goal postponed when she did not gain admission after finishing 12th grade in 2024. She recalled the sadness of seeing friends admitted while she remained home, fearing a wasted year.
Thousands of young Mozambicans face similar challenges annually due to limited places at public universities, often leaving them without studies or work for extended periods.
Why it mattersYoung Mozambicans are unable to pursue higher education due to limited university places.