A fundraiser launched to help a Palestinian student from war-torn Gaza travel to Belfast to study at Queen’s University on a scholarship has hit its target in 24 hours.
Ibrahim Aldalis, a civil engineer from Gaza City, was awarded the Copty Scholarship to study at Queen’s University. But extra travel and visa costs meant he couldn’t afford to take up the opportunity.
The fundraiser launched by the QUB Palestine Assembly had raised over £7,000 by Sunday morning.
Mr Aldalis was awarded the “life-changing” scholarship after applying from a “crowded tent, with limited access to electricity, internet and essential supplies”.
He said receiving the news that his application was successful was bittersweet.
“While this scholarship is a dream come true, it doesn’t cover the crucial expenses I face before even starting my studies,” he said.
“The ongoing war has severely impacted my family’s financial situation, making it impossible for me to afford the necessary travel arrangements and initial living costs.”
The Copty Scholarship at Queen’s University Belfast was set up in 2020 by Georgina (Gina) Copty, originally from Jerusalem, and her husband Christopher McDowell.
The scholarship which aims to encourage students from Palestine to undertake postgraduate study at Queen’s, covers international tuition fees and accommodation for the duration of the programme.
The Queen’s University Palestine Assembly pointed out that the scholarships “do not contribute to visa or travel costs” meaning successful students can’t take up their places.
Travel and visa costs are expected to cost Mr Aldalis thousands of pounds, which he will now be able to pay with the funds raised.
In April, Queen’s Vice Chancellor Ian Greer announced that the scholarship would be extended from one student to four, as part of new measures to support academics and students at risk across the world.
With the initial fundraising target of £6,700 met, the QUB Palestine Assembly have upper their target to £10,000 in order to support the other three students.
Daniella Dukmark from Beit Jala, Palestine was also awarded the scholarship.
A separate fundraiser had been launched to help Ms Dukmak travel to study a postgraduate in Public Health at Queen’s. It has raised under €500.
Her friend Helene Worn who set up the GoFundMe said: “Daniella is incredibly intelligent and hardworking individual who deserves this opportunity.”
In a statement the QUB Palestine Assembly said: “Without urgent interventions, there is a risk that none of the four scholars will be in a position to accept their scholarships.”
They said the success of the initial fundraising campaign had been possible “thanks to magnificent support in Belfast and beyond.”
They added urged the public to “give generously” so that the remaining Copty students can travel to Belfast.
Donations can be made here.
