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The Education Above All Foundation has facilitated the arrival of approximately 100 students from the Gaza Strip to pursue higher education in Qatar, the foundation said in an announcement. These students, many evacuated due to the war, have been enrolled in programmes at the University of Doha for Science and Technology and other institutions based on their academic records and future commitment to return. The initiative known as Rebuilding Hope for Gaza requires participants to have high GPAs and proficiency in English while focusing on fields vital for reconstruction such as medicine and engineering. University officials have arranged dedicated orientation sessions to assist with integration into the Qatari academic environment.
Research from the United Nations Development Programme shows that all 12 universities in Gaza have been bombed compounding the loss of educational opportunities for thousands. In response Qatar has partnered with the foundation and the Qatar Fund for Development to create alternative pathways for promising students. This support has allowed evacuees to avoid further interruption in their studies that began with the escalation in October 2023.
Speaking to Al Jazeera English one student highlighted the significance of the opportunity after enduring displacement. Ibrahim Qudaih said this scholarship from education above all is giving me a new start opening a new chapter in his life as he pursues psychology to help his community deal with trauma. The foundation’s programme has been credited with preserving the potential of a generation affected by the destruction of Gaza’s education infrastructure.
Aisha AlKuwari Director of Humanitarian Operations at Qatar Charity said Education is a lifeline for children in Gaza. By supporting students schools and educators we aim to restore hope and protect the future of displaced children. Although focused on in-Gaza support similar principles apply to the Qatar hub for evacuees. The charity has provided school bags and materials to 4500 primary students in displacement camps according to its latest report.
In May 2026 the foundation collaborated with the UNDP and the Palestinian Ministry of Education to complete 100 learning spaces across Gaza to benefit up to 90000 students a UNDP press release stated. These transitional units are intended to allow in-person examinations and classes despite the damage to permanent structures. The dual approach of in-country reconstruction and external scholarships demonstrates Qatar’s multifaceted strategy for educational support.
The students have expressed gratitude to Qatar for the chance to build their futures with several telling local media that the move has renewed their hope. University officials in Doha have organised welcoming events and provided academic advising to ensure smooth transitions. Long-term the programme aims to equip participants with skills to contribute to Gaza’s recovery upon their return.
