Dependants of Gaza students can come to UK, government says

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A new government policy in the UK will now allow partners and children of Gazan students coming to study in the country to join them, as confirmed by officials. This change represents a shift from the previous policy, which only supported the evacuation of the students themselves. Each application for dependants will be assessed individually, with specific requirements such as demonstrating the ability to cover living expenses.

Individuals looking to reunite with their family members studying in the UK will need to apply for a student dependant visa and meet various criteria, including providing evidence of adequate funds – up to £6,120 ($8,074) for non-London students and £7,605 for those studying in London. The government spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced by students from Gaza and emphasized the importance of supporting them in pursuing their education at top universities in the UK.

Manar al-Houbi, a prospective PhD student at the University of Glasgow who previously expressed concerns about leaving her family behind in Gaza, welcomed the policy change and expressed hope for a speedy reunion with her loved ones. Despite some setbacks, with a group of students not being able to start their studies this year due to timing issues, efforts are being made to accommodate them in future enrollment cycles to mitigate their losses.

The conflict in Gaza, which began with an attack initiated by Hamas militants on southern Israel in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and ongoing tensions in the region. A recent ceasefire agreement brokered by the US aimed to restore stability, but subsequent escalations in violence have complicated the situation. The humanitarian impact of the conflict continues to be a pressing concern, with efforts to support affected individuals and facilitate educational opportunities remaining a priority for stakeholders involved

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