The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has extended unconditional offers to international students at Harvard, following recent US government actions that have affected the university’s ability to enrol them.
The Chinese university said the step would help “ensure a smooth transition” for students who may be unable to enroll for the next academic year. Over 1,000 Chinese students are currently studying at the prestigious Ivy League institution.
The move comes amid escalating tensions between the US government and Harvard, with the Department of Homeland Security citing concerns over campus safety and alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
Meanwhile, Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the decision will have a devastating impact on thousands of international students. The university is also suing over a cut of more than USD 2 billion in federal funding.
Judge Blocks Trump From Revoking Harvard Enrolment
A US judge on Friday blocked the Trump administration from revoking Harvard University’s ability to enroll foreign students. Harvard University called the revocation a “blatant violation” of the US Constitution and other federal laws and had an “immediate and devastating effect” on the university and more than 7,000 visa holders.
“With the stroke of a pen, the government has sought to erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body, international students who contribute significantly to the university and its mission,” the university said.
Trump’s pressure on Harvard is part of a broader Republican campaign aimed at forcing traditionally independent institutions, such as universities, law firms, media outlets, and the judiciary, to conform to his political agenda.
This effort has included attempts to deport foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests despite no criminal wrongdoing, punitive measures against law firms employing attorneys who opposed Trump, and even suggestions to impeach judges over rulings that diverged from his immigration stance.
Tune In
