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Refugee Week blog: In support of all those ‘forced to flee’

Professor Susan Lea, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hull reflects on Refugee Week.

This week we recognise Refugee Week, an important opportunity to reflect on the courage and resilience of those who have been forced to leave their homes due to persecution, threat to life or economic deprivation.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Susan Lea

While Refugee Week, and the current war in Ukraine, shine a spotlight on the plight of refugees, it is important that we remain constant in our compassion, understanding and support for individuals and communities throughout the world who are forced to flee all that is familiar to them.

This year, the theme of Refugee Week is “healing” and the University of Hull is holding a number of events to reflect on and recognise the life experiences of refugees, as well as celebrate their rich cultural contribution to our communities.

This programme includes a new exhibition at the University’s art gallery – Forced to Flee: Stories from Hull Refugees – which will explore healing through art, creativity and conversations, and feature the work of Hull artists who have had to flee their homes, livelihoods and countries in search of safety.

The University of Hull is proud to be a ‘University of Sanctuary', a status achieved in 2018, reflecting our strong commitment to welcoming and supporting those who seek safety and sanctuary in the UK.

As part of this commitment, our Sanctuary Fee Reduction Scheme offers financial support to entrants seeking asylum in the UK whilst our Sanctuary Scholarships Scheme is open to three new entrants each year and offers a full tuition fee waiver, an annual £2,000 study grant, and tailored personal support for the full duration of a programme of study.

Through these measures, we aim to reduce barriers and actively support those seeking sanctuary to realise their academic potential, as well as fostering a welcoming and inclusive culture.

Our University Strategy 2030 has social justice as one of its key themes and we stand in solidarity with refugees.

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