Palestinian Student Graduates with Honors from Indonesian University Amidst gaza Conflict
Table of Contents
Indonesia’s Muhammadiyah University (UM) Surabaya demonstrated its commitment to international education and solidarity with Palestine on Saturday, October 25th, by awarding a cum laude degree to Sondos Jehad Shnewra, a postgraduate student from Palestine. Shnewra’s achievement is particularly poignant given the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where his family remains.
A Second Home in Surabaya
Shnewra described his time at UM surabaya as transformative, extending beyond the academic realm. “This campus is not only a place to study,but also a second home for me,a place where I find family,cross-national friendships,and human and Islamic values that live in my daily life,” he stated. This sense of community proved crucial during a challenging period,as Shnewra navigated completing his final assignments while deeply concerned for his family’s safety.
Scholarship Facilitates Educational Pursuit
Shnewra’s studies were made possible through a scholarship from Lazismu East Java, an organization that actively supports educational opportunities for international students. The scholarship allowed him to pursue his Masters in his chosen field, a dream he was able to realize thanks to the support of the Indonesian people. his parents, he explained, fully supported his decision to study in Indonesia, recognizing the nation’s reputation for safety and its longstanding solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Strength in Community During Crisis
The past two years have been exceptionally difficult for Shnewra, coinciding with escalating conflict in Gaza. While focused on his academic work in Surabaya, he together carried the weight of his family’s struggle for survival. He credits the unwavering support of his friends and lecturers at UM Surabaya for providing him with strength during this time. “I ask for prayers for my family who are still in Palestine. I am grateful that Allah has given me good friends who always pray for me,” he shared.
A Symbol of Indonesian Support
Shnewra expressed profound gratitude to both UM Surabaya and Lazismu for the scholarship, viewing it as more than just financial assistance.He believes the chance represents a powerful symbol of Indonesia’s concern for Palestine and a testament to the potential for brotherhood between nations. “The scholarship I received is not only about education, but also about hope and brotherhood between nations,” he emphasized.
Looking Towards a Peaceful Future
Upon graduation, Shnewra hopes to build a peaceful life and secure meaningful employment. He aspires to represent Palestine positively within Indonesia, acknowledging the significant opportunities he has been afforded. “I want to make a good name in Indonesia as a Palestinian who has received great opportunities from this nation,” he concluded, embodying a spirit of resilience and gratitude.
News Report Update:
Why: sondos Jehad Shnewra, a Palestinian postgraduate student, graduated cum laude from Muhammadiyah University (UM) Surabaya, Indonesia, on October 25th. This graduation is particularly significant due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where his family remains. the event highlights Indonesia’s longstanding support for Palestine and the power of international educational exchange.
Who: The key individuals involved are sondos Jehad Shnewra, the graduating student; UM Surabaya, the university awarding the degree; and Lazismu east Java, the organization providing the scholarship. the story also acknowledges Shnewra’s family in Gaza and the supportive community at UM Surabaya.
What: Shnewra successfully completed his Master’s
Worth a look
- RAP vs. IBR: What Your New Student Loan Bill Actually Costs (daybreakwire.com)
