Five students from the Gaza Strip have crossed the threshold of the University of Jaén (Universidad de Jaén) for the first time, becoming the inaugural participants in a humanitarian corridor created specifically for Erasmus+ scholarship holders and asylum program recipients. For Sajah Ellouh, this day became a symbol of hope: despite personal loss and the trauma of war, she once again felt part of university life. Joining her in Jaén were Hanin, Aisha, Yahya, and Farah. Two more students will soon begin their studies in Barcelona and Madrid.
These young people, who have survived destruction and loss, do not hide their anxiety about the future. Ellouh, who lost two brothers, admits she is unsure if she will ever be able to return home. But for now, what matters most is the opportunity to study and to make plans that the war once cut short.
The journey to Spain
The road to Spain proved difficult and uncertain. The journey began by crossing the border between Gaza and Jordan, made possible through coordination with consulates in Jerusalem and Amman. In Amman, the university provided students with temporary accommodation and a chance to rest before their flight to Madrid. All travel and living expenses were covered by the host institution.
The relocation was arranged not only by the university and Spanish diplomats but also by international bodies, including the Palestinian Erasmus+ agency and several NGOs. Every stage was accompanied by bureaucratic challenges and risks related to the ongoing conflict in the region.
Support and integration
A comprehensive support program has been prepared for students arriving in Jaén. They have been provided with accommodation in university dormitories until the end of January, and their food and tuition expenses are covered. Special attention is given to psychological support: university specialists are ready to help those who have experienced traumatic events.
As part of the integration program, events have been organized to help students get acquainted with the city and the university community. A dedicated team oversees the adaptation process, assisting students not only in settling into a new country but also in becoming part of the academic environment.
Plans for the Future
The University of Jaén is not limiting its assistance to just these five students. There are plans to accept all 12 Palestinian students enrolled in university programs. Currently, six remain in Gaza and another is in Egypt. The university administration continues to work on their evacuation and preparations for their arrival in Spain.
Rector Nicolás Ruiz stresses that the university’s mission goes beyond education. According to him, the institution strives to be not just a place for acquiring knowledge, but a space where human dignity is valued and human rights are supported. He considers creating a safe environment where students can regain their normal rhythm of life to be the most important task right now.
Cooperation and Solidarity
The implementation of the humanitarian corridor involved not only university structures, but also community organizations. The UJA x Palestina platform and the association Jaén Acoge played a key role in supporting the students and helping them adapt to daily life. Thanks to these joint efforts, conditions were created in which young people can not only study, but also integrate into their new society.
The university notes that Jaén’s experience could serve as an example for other universities in the country. They are convinced that supporting students from conflict zones is not only a humanitarian mission but also an investment in the future of education and international cooperation.
