CQUniversity is giving its more advanced Learning Management (Primary) students the chance to earn a term of course credit by volunteering in India during January...

The University has a partnership with Saalam Baalak Trust and is giving 10 education students the chance to travel to Delhi to work in programs which help street children gain an education. Costs of flights and accommodation are being covered for participating students.

Among those heading to India are L-R Greg Wilkes, Reyna Zipf, Samantha Langton, Megan Findlater, Elliot Green and Samantha Hearn

One of those heading to India, Elliot Green, said she was expecting some 'confronting sights'.

"I expect the poverty will hit us in the face but it will be a great experience to assist the children. We hope we can provide them with opportunities in the future," she said.

"I expect the trip will be life-changing and rewarding."

Salaam Baalak Trust provides support services for children in difficult circumstances. Each year, it reaches out to over 5000 children through 17 full-care and drop-in shelters and outreach programs in the national capital region of Delhi.

Elliot Green - expects some confronting sights

As a sponsor of Salaam Baalak Trust, CQUniversity is proud the worthy organisation has been awarded India's National Award for Child Welfare 2011. The award was presented by President of India Pranab Mukherjee recently in recognition of the Trust's valuable services in the community, in the field of child development.

The 10 students selected for the January trip are: Taryn Hirst, Denielija Maclean and Debbie Bradley from Bundaberg; Amy Lyle and Samantha Langton from Noosa; Megan Findlater, Samantha Hearn and Elliot Green from Rockhampton; and Naomi Hodgson and Melinda Haack from Mackay. They will be accompanied by CQUniversity staff Greg Wilkes, Reyna Zipf and Jan Bulman.

Some of the contingent chat about their expectations of India