The UK government has promised to assist more students with an evacuation from Gaza. This effort aims to help them reach British universities for the upcoming term. However, their safe passage remains highly uncertain and depends on Israeli approval. Ministers recently approved plans for thirty additional students. This follows last week’s commitment to evacuate nine Chevening scholars. Consequently, the total number of students offered help now reaches thirty-nine.
All these students hold fully funded scholarships. These prestigious awards allow them to study for master’s degrees in the UK. The government is now working to secure their safe exit. A Home Office source called this a complex and challenging task. Firstly, Israel must approve each student’s name for evacuation. Then, students must travel to a third country like Jordan for visa checks.
Campaigners welcomed this expansion of help. However, they expressed serious concerns about the process. Many students have received no direct contact from the government. This lack of communication causes significant anxiety. Dr. Norah Parr coordinates support efforts for these students. She stated relief at the larger assisted group. Yet, she highlighted worries over transparency and unclear guidelines. She estimates at least fifty-three students have full funding.
One student, Soha, is due to start a PhD. She expressed excitement but also fear. Also, she worries the plan might not materialize for everyone. She says they will not rest until every student receives news. Labour MP Abtisam Mohamed has strongly advocated for these students. Over one hundred parliamentarians backed her call for government action. She stated that many students feared dying before taking their university places.
The Home Secretary has given officials clear instructions. She wants no stone left unturned in this effort. The goal is to allow these talented students to start their studies soon. Ultimately, the evacuation from Gaza is a fragile process. Each step requires careful coordination and external approval. The hope is that all funded students can safely begin their academic journeys in the UK.
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