More than 200 primary school students from across the ACT are the first-ever recipients of the Fred Hollows Humanity Award.

The Fred Hollows Award encourages primary students to follow in the late humanitarian’s footsteps by making positive contributions at school and in the community.

The ACT is the first territory or state in Australia to introduce the awards program into schools.

The Foundation’s Founding Director, Gabi Hollows joined the ACT Minister for Education, Dr Chris Bourke during a special presentation ceremony with students at the Hedley Beare Centre for Teaching and Learning in Canberra.

Dr Bourke congratulated the 240 students on the positive contribution they made to their schools and acknowledged The Foundation for the important role it has played in bettering communities across Australia. 

"Fred Hollows, always the optimist, believed that the world can be a better place," Dr Bourke said.

"These recipients are carrying on this sentiment through their wonderful initiatives and community work and the returns to our community are significant."

CEO of The Foundation, Brian Doolan said Canberra primary school students should be incredibly proud of the work they are doing to help their peers and other members of the community.

“There were some really outstanding nominations this year, and it’s wonderful to see so many young children being positive role models,” he said.

“Fred Hollows always helped those in need, and it’s good to see that Canberra students are following in his footsteps.”

Fred Hollows was an ordinary child who grew up to do extraordinary things. He was awarded Australian of The Year in 1990 for his work restoring sight the blind, proving that one person can make a difference in the world.