Harvard fights back: Trump revokes international student permit
The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's authorisation to admit international students. "Let this serve as a warning for all universities," commented Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, regarding the decision.
Kristi Noem shared via social media that Harvard University had its "certificate for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program" revoked. "Let this serve as a warning for all universities and academic institutions across the country," she wrote.
"This administration is holding Harvard accountable for fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus," Noem stated. "It is a privilege, not a right, for universities to enroll foreign students and benefit from their higher tuition payments," she added.
Harvard called this decision "illegal" in a statement.
"We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard's ability to host international students and scholars, who hail from more than 140 countries and enrich the University – and this nation – immeasurably," read the statement from the university.
The Trump administration's decision could affect thousands of international students studying at this university. According to the university's data, nearly 7,000 international students enrolled last academic year, making up 27.2 percent of the total student body.
What are the allegations of the Trump administration?
Harvard University has found itself at the centre of a dispute with the Trump administration, which accuses the university of antisemitism, lack of transparency, and failing to meet legal obligations.
The Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, stated that Harvard does not fulfill its ethical and fiduciary obligations. In response to these allegations, Harvard's provost, Alan Garber, emphasized that the university will not yield to federal government pressure.
Facing the threat of a suspension of $2.2 billion in funding, Harvard has decided to take legal action against the Trump administration. The university argues that the government's actions are unconstitutional and violate its independence.
