Palestinian student set to begin studies in Waterford after having visa approved
Waterford TD Conor McGuinness has welcomed the news that Hazem Faris will begin his studies at SETU
A Palestinian student is set to begin his studies in Waterford after having his visa approved.
Gazan student Hazem Faris is set to travel to Ireland this week to begin his studies at the South East Technological University (SETU).
He will undertake an undergraduate degree in computer science, having received a fully funded scholarship from the university.
The scholarship includes tuition fees, a living allowance, accommodation, meals, comprehensive medical insurance, travel costs and a computer.
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness has received confirmation from the Minister for Justice that Mr Faris will be included on the next flight to Ireland.
Deputy McGuinness welcomed the confirmation as a positive development for Mr Faris, SETU and all those who have worked to assist in getting him to Ireland.
However, he stressed that the Government must do more for other Palestinian students who remain unable to take up their university and college places here.
Deputy McGuinness said: “I’m absolutely delighted that Hazem Faris is set to come to Waterford to study at SETU.
“He has worked hard to secure this opportunity, and it’s wonderful that he will have the chance to continue his education here.
“SETU has rightly welcomed the opportunity to support Hazem, and students in Waterford will welcome him with open arms.
“He should be able to concentrate on his education and building a future for himself, rather than having to fight any more battles.”
He outlined the struggles facing other Palestinians who are looking to study in Ireland.
“However, many other Palestinians who have gained university places in Ireland remain stranded in Gaza or elsewhere, unable to take up those opportunities.
“These are young people who have demonstrated their academic ability and secured places at Irish universities.
“Many have fully funded scholarships, yet they have been refused visas or left waiting for decisions while their academic year passes them by.”
Deputy McGuinness argued that the Government must bear in mind the situation facing Palestinian students when considering their visa applications.
“Students from Gaza face extraordinary difficulties obtaining the documentation routinely expected of applicants elsewhere.
“Banks, universities and other civilian infrastructure have been destroyed or severely disrupted.
“It is unreasonable to assess these students without properly accounting for the circumstances in which they are living.”
“The Minister for Justice must urgently address the barriers preventing these students from coming to Ireland.”
He also called for Government co-operation when it comes to Palestinian students’ journeys to Ireland.
“The Government must work across departments to expedite outstanding appeals, provide clarity to universities and ensure that students who receive visas can travel to Ireland without further unnecessary delay.
“Granting a visa is only one part of the process. Students must also be able to leave Gaza safely and reach Ireland in time to begin their courses.
“That requires urgent coordination and practical action from the Department of Foreign Affairs, and I want to commend the Department for the work it has done to facilitate this process.”
Deputy McGuinness outlined the difficult journey ahead for Mr Faris.
“Leaving Gaza is now the final hurdle for Hazem. It is a complex process that depends on receiving permission from the Israeli authorities.
“Hazem’s arrival will be a very positive development, but Ireland has an opportunity to demonstrate real solidarity with Palestinian students.”
He concluded by calling on the Government to do everything in its power to ensure Palestinian students are not denied an education.