Conflict in Gaza: Measures Taken by Sciences Po on Institutional and Educational Fronts
In the turbulent landscape of the Middle East, academic institutions play a crucial role in fostering critical thinking, innovation, and intellectual development. Among these, Sciences Po, a renowned French institution, has demonstrated its commitment to supporting academic freedom and education in regions affected by conflict, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank.
The ongoing conflict in the region has disrupted the education of 625,000 students and affected thousands of teachers. Recognising the importance of education for the long-term stability and development of these regions, Sciences Po has taken significant steps to ensure that opportunities for young people to acquire skills and knowledge are not lost.
In 2024, Sciences Po signed a partnership with Birzeit University in the West Bank, providing scholarships for 9 exchange students. The partnership was renewed for 2025-2026, with 5 mobility scholarships financed by Sciences Po. Additionally, the institution has signed an exchange agreement with Al-Quds University in the West Bank, and granted five Erasmus + scholarships to students from Al Quds University in 2024-25.
Sciences Po's commitment extends beyond financial support. The institution prioritizes the safety of students impacted by the war and has provided support to tens of affected students. Furthermore, Sciences Po decided to participate in the Technical Education Support for Higher Education Students Initiative - TESI, aiming to empower Gaza students to complete their university education remotely.
In terms of academic freedom, Sciences Po has been actively involved in defending academic freedom since the conflict in Gaza began in October 2023. The institution's stance is reflected in the numerous articles published by its faculty, such as Samy Cohen's "Israel, what kind of democracy?" and Laetitia Bucaille's "Palestinians facing Israel."
Sciences Po's dedication to the region is also evident in the presence of Palestinian artist Maha Issa Al-Daya, who is jointly hosted by the Columbia Institute for Ideas and Imagination, the Columbia Paris Global Center, and Sciences Po for a year. The artist's work provides a unique perspective on the region's complexities and contributes to the institution's commitment to fostering intellectual diversity.
While specific initiatives or actions related to the conflict in Gaza and the West Bank are not extensively documented in the provided search results, it is clear that Sciences Po remains steadfast in its commitment to academic freedom and education in conflict zones. For more detailed information on their initiatives, contacting Sciences Po directly or visiting their official website might provide a clearer picture of their ongoing role and approach.
In conclusion, Sciences Po's efforts serve as a testament to the importance of academic freedom and education in conflict zones. By fostering critical thinking, innovation, and intellectual development, institutions like Sciences Po contribute to the long-term stability and development of regions like Gaza and the West Bank.
In light of the disrupted education of 625,000 students in the Middle East conflict, Sciences Po has offered financial support through scholarships and exchange programs, such as signing a partnership with Birzeit University in the West Bank, providing safety assistance to affected students, and participating in the Technical Education Support for Higher Education Students Initiative - TESI. Recognizing the importance of education in conflict zones, Sciences Po also prioritizes academic freedom, evident through numerous articles published by its faculty and the presence of Palestinian artist Maha Issa Al-Daya. These initiatives highlight Sciences Po's dedication to fostering intellectual development, critical thinking, and innovation in regions like Gaza and the West Bank, contributing to their long-term stability and development.
