Under the programme, dubbed HESPAL (Higher Education Scholarships for Palestine), up to 10 academics each year will be sponsored for a years study in the UK. Universities such as City, Essex, Kings College London, Exeter, Manchester, London School of Economics, Newcastle, School of Oriental and African Studies, Sussex and Oxford Brookes have pledged to offer one scholarship per year for the next four years.

Palestinian academics will be able to study areas such as finance, business, IT, chemistry, agriculture, water management, international development, physics, education and law.

Amongst those supporting the scheme is David Lammy, UK minister for Higher Education, who said:

“In countries all over the world, the link between a burgeoning HE sector and a thriving economy is clear. Through training the next generation of academic leaders, HESPAL will make a real difference to local communities in Palestine, benefit the academic community and the wider society and re-energise the economy.”

Antoine Mattar, a key fundraiser for the scheme and Chair of the Palestine Britain Business Council commented:

“The Palestine Britain Business Council views this initiative as a milestone in the development of higher education in Palestine, which will enhance the skills, expertise and knowledge needed for all disciplines in the socio-economic environment of the communities.”