By covering the cost of higher education, Turkey is not only facilitating these students’ academic pursuits but also fostering a sense of solidarity.
By covering the cost of higher education, Turkey is not only facilitating these students’ academic pursuits but also fostering a sense of solidarity.
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has issued a presidential decree aimed at extending financial aid to master’s and doctoral students from Gaza, Palestine. The initiative is part of Turkey’s broader effort to promote educational opportunities for students in war-stricken areas between Israel and Hamas.
The decree adds a temporary article to the existing presidential decree on contribution and tuition fees for the 2023-24 academic year in Turkish higher education institutions. This new amendment specifically targets Gazan students pursuing thesis-based master’s and doctoral programs in public universities in Turkey.
The decree stipulates that, for the spring semester of the 2023-24 academic year, the Turkish government will absorb the tuition fees for eligible students from Gaza. This policy is a significant step in providing academic relief to students who have been adversely affected by the ongoing conflict in their home region.
By covering the costs of higher education, Turkey is not only facilitating these students’ academic pursuits but also fostering a sense of global solidarity and support.
This latest decision builds upon a previous presidential decree, issued on Nov. 17 and recently published, which covered tuition fees for Gazan students enrolled in associate and undergraduate programs at public higher education institutions in Turkey. The inclusion of master’s and doctoral students in this financial support initiative marks a significant expansion of Turkey’s educational assistance to Palestinian students.
The Turkish government’s decision to support Gazan students is a reflection of its broader foreign policy and humanitarian efforts in the region. By investing in the education of students from conflict-affected areas, Turkey aims to contribute to the development of human capital in these regions, which is crucial for long-term peace and stability.
While this initiative is a positive step towards educational equity, it also presents certain challenges. Ensuring smooth implementation and accessibility for all eligible students will be key. Additionally, the initiative opens avenues for increased cultural exchange and understanding between Turkish and Palestinian academic communities.
Erdoğan’s decree represents a significant commitment by the Turkish government to support higher education for students from war-affected regions. By providing financial assistance to Gazan master’s and doctoral students, Turkey is not only alleviating the immediate burden of educational expenses but also investing in the future leaders and professionals who can contribute to the rebuilding and development of their home region.
This initiative is a testament to the power of education in fostering international solidarity and understanding in times of conflict.
