S'poreans launch scholarship for Palestinian students, over S$111,000 raised in 2 months

A group of Singaporeans has raised over S$110,000 in scholarship funds in two months to sponsor the education of Palestinian students affected by the ongoing conflicts in the region.

The Palestinian Scholarship Initiative (PSI) was launched in October 2024, with a ground-up initiative aiming to raise S$400,000 to sponsor two Palestinian students for full-time four-year studies at local universities in Singapore, covering tuition, lodging, and living expenses.

Over 100 applications

The scholarship is awarded to Palestinian students who are successful in their application to local universities.

Over 100 applications have been received from Palestinians, with almost 50 per cent from Gaza.

The first cohort of students is expected to commence their studies in the academic year of 2025.

The Scholarship Administration Committee is co-chaired by former Nominated Member of Parliament and social entrepreneur, Anthea Ong, and former minister Yaacob Ibrahim.

Registered charity Ray of Hope will manage all funds raised for the scholarship to guarantee transparency and accountability.

Over 650 people donated

Since its launch, the initiative has earned support from various sectors, including collaborations with local universities and consultations with international experts, and bodies like the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

As of Jan. 18, 2025, over 650 people have donated to the initiative.

“Without education, there is no future. Supporting young Palestinians to study in Singapore not only provides them with access to world-class education but also enriches our society by fostering diversity, empathy and global understanding,” said Ong.

"While we may not be able to change the world with this small contribution, we sincerely hope that the Palestinian Scholarship Initiative can make a world of difference to one or two young Palestinians each year."

For more information or to contribute to the PSI, you may visit their website here.

Top image via HGGG/Google Maps and palestinianscholarship.sg/Instagram