UI Rector Prof. Heri Hermansyah in Depok on Friday said the initiative reflects the university’s effort to expand access to higher education, not only for students from Indonesia’s underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions (3T) but also for those coming from conflict zones.
“UI wants to stand for humanity. By accepting Palestinian students into our specialist program, we demonstrate that education can serve as a bridge of solidarity. Just as we work to provide access for students from 3T areas in Indonesia, we also want to create opportunities for those from conflict zones so they can return and serve their countries,” he said.
Two Palestinian doctors have already begun specialist studies in thoracic surgery and plastic surgery at UI’s Faculty of Medicine. Another candidate, who was expected to join the pulmonology program, remains in Gaza due to the ongoing war.
“We are waiting for his arrival at UI. The situation in Gaza is extremely difficult, but we hope that one day he can reach Depok and continue his studies,” Heri added.
Scholarships for the three Palestinian doctors are supported by several institutions, including the Indonesian Cardiothoracic Board (BTKV), Baznas, and Indonesian AID or the Indonesian Agency for International Development Cooperation.
According to Heri, the program is a long-term investment with far-reaching benefits.
“When they return, the expertise they gain at UI can make a significant contribution to Palestine. For us at UI, this is tangible proof that the university exists not only for Indonesia but also for humanity,” he said.
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Ari Fahrial, emphasized that the presence of Palestinian students represents real academic solidarity.
“We are deeply concerned about the situation in Gaza. This education is not only for the individuals but also for the Palestinian people who need specialist medical professionals,” he said.
Latest data from the Palestinian Ministry of Higher Education shows that since Israel’s military aggression began on October 7, 2023, at least 18,489 students have been killed and 28,854 others injured in Gaza and the West Bank.
Of that number, more than 18,346 students were killed in Gaza, while nearly 1,000 children lost their lives in the West Bank. In addition, 740 students have been detained without clear legal process.
The tragedy has also claimed the lives of 970 teachers and school staff, left more than 4,500 injured, and led to the detention of hundreds of others.
The education infrastructure has been devastated. The ministry reported that 160 public schools in Gaza have been destroyed, 63 university buildings demolished, and 25 schools disappeared along with students and teachers.
In the West Bank, at least 152 schools were damaged, and eight universities have repeatedly faced raids or destruction by Israeli forces.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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