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  • Trump Officials Push to Limit International Student Internships

    Trump Officials Push to Limit International Student Internships

    Some universities suspend certain work authorization applications.

    UC Berkeley describes its recent memo as “more focused and direct.”

    Advocacy groups voice concerns over academic freedom and fair treatment.

    WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has issued a directive aimed at colleges and universities to limit the issuance of specific internship work authorizations for international students. The federal government has warned institutions that non-compliance could result in losing certification to admit foreign students.

    According to the memo dated August 24, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), operated by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has noticed an increase in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approvals that may violate regulations. The regulations specify that CPT should only be granted when the training is an essential part of an established curriculum.

    Failure to adhere to SEVP guidelines could lead to an institution losing its certification to host international students, the memo states.

    Following this, some schools, including UCLA and UC Berkeley, have halted certain international student work authorization applications.

    A UCLA spokesperson confirmed, “UCLA has paused some Curricular Practical Training approvals while reviewing recent federal guidance and determining next steps.”

    UC Berkeley’s international office noted that the August 24 memo was “more narrowly focused, more straightforward, and includes more restrictive content.” The federal government had issued an earlier memo in mid-August as well.

    The Berkeley international office announced it would extend the pause on certain work authorizations for international students for the foreseeable future. They clarified that they will continue processing CPT necessary for degree requirements as usual and will resume processing CPT related to doctoral dissertations and master’s thesis research once ready.

    The office also revealed plans to consult legal experts to establish new procedures aligned with the updated federal regulations.

    The Department of Homeland Security, parent agency of ICE, stated, “There have been no changes to these regulations. Schools and employers should be aware: under the Trump administration, misuse of this system will no longer be tolerated.”

    President Trump’s policies have increasingly targeted universities through investigations and threats of funding reductions over issues including protests against US support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, diversity initiatives, climate programs, and transgender policies.

    Rights advocates have raised concerns about free speech, academic freedom, and due process.

    In a related issue, the Justice Department alleged on Thursday that admissions practices at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences favored Black and Hispanic applicants. The department based this on findings from an investigation and continues to push the administration to limit diversity efforts.

    The university responded, “We are disappointed by the DOJ’s conclusions, which we believe are incorrect. Our admissions policies comply with the law and are not discriminatory.”

    The Justice Department has made similar claims against other institutions, emphasizing its intention to pursue settlement negotiations. If negotiations fail, lawsuits are anticipated.

    Additionally, the Trump administration has revoked visas for student protesters involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, which it has labeled as antisemitic and supportive of extremist groups.

    Protesters, including members of Jewish communities, argue that opposition to Israel’s military actions and occupation in Gaza is not antisemitic, and advocating for Palestinian rights does not equate to extremism.

  • Indian Student Claims ‘Pakistani Agent’ Label Silences Protest Voices

    Indian Student Claims ‘Pakistani Agent’ Label Silences Protest Voices

    A student from India, who went on a 23-day hunger strike during recent protests, has criticized Indian media for labeling protesters as “Pakistani agents.” Neha Bora, one of thousands who demonstrated at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, explained that such accusations are a tactic to suppress dissent. She recalled that similar claims had been made against people in illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Bora pointed out that the world remained silent on the violence in Kashmir, and now those same issues have come to Delhi’s Connaught Place.

    She stated, “Today, when students are protesting for their rights, they are being called ‘Pakistani agents.’” She added, “People now realize these previous accusations were false.” Bora’s comments came after the young protesters ended their demonstration following the resignation of the education minister and a government commitment to address their demands. Among the protesters’ other goals were compensation for those impacted by exam irregularities and the dropping of legal cases against participants.

    Following these events, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of a task force led by tech entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani to reform India’s exam system, addressing concerns over paper leaks. Modi emphasized on Instagram that the new system should be trustworthy and transparent, with maximum use of technology, and that legislation to prevent paper leaks would be introduced in parliament on Monday.

  • India Protests Persist: Food, Fury, and Supporters Near and Far

    India Protests Persist: Food, Fury, and Supporters Near and Far

    A constant flow of food delivery riders bringing meals, snacks, and bottled water has become essential to supporting a youth-led protest movement centered in India’s capital. Motorcycles navigate through traffic, stopping alongside groups of volunteers who are delivering donations from supporters both within India and abroad, all unable to physically join the rare public protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

    “Orders are coming from everywhere,” said Suraj Kumar, 25, a rider with a bag of kachoris — a popular deep-fried snack — as volunteers climbed over police barricades to collect the packages. A volunteer received the food and handed it over in a relay to the protest site about a few hundred meters away, around Delhi’s Jantar Mantar observatory, where hundreds of protesters gathered around an elevated platform.

    Leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a movement that started as an online satire in May, have been demonstrating here since last month, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to ongoing exam paper leaks. The protest gained significant momentum in recent days after a prominent activist began an indefinite hunger strike in support.

    Despite a significant police crackdown on Monday when tens of thousands of young people attempted to march on Parliament, the encampment persists. Young Indians under 30 make up more than half of the country’s population of approximately 1.42 billion, many of whom have expressed frustration that years of economic growth have not translated into enough job opportunities.

    “People are angry, especially after police started beating innocent students. But not everyone can be here physically, so they’re sending food,” explained Raj Rathore, 25, a volunteer who has been managing deliveries of water bottles, fruit, and biscuits over the past few days. These contributions and volunteer support networks have been crucial in sustaining the protest around the clock, students indicated.

    “This protest is only possible because of people’s kindness and our unity,” said Rina Rawat, a 20-year-old Delhi University student organizing queues inside the protest site. Rawat herself was hit on the left leg with police batons on Monday but returned the next day to continue her participation.

    Modi has not directly addressed the protests, although a coalition minister mentioned after a recent meeting that the Prime Minister assured them that the “strongest possible steps are being taken to protect students’ interests.” Education Minister Pradhan also promised “answers, reforms, and accountability.”

    By late Wednesday afternoon, despite intermittent monsoon showers, the protest crowd had swelled to about 5,000, mostly Generation Z students holding signs, playing patriotic Bollywood songs, and chanting slogans. One protester shouted, “Modi, we won’t tolerate your autocracy,” drawing cheers — an unusual display of open criticism against a leader who has dominated Indian politics since 2014.

    Mukesh, who chose not to disclose his last name, shared, “I was a Modi supporter until 10 days ago, but seeing police brutality shocked me.” Many of the young demonstrators drew inspiration from India’s fight for independence, carrying portraits of revolutionary Bhagat Singh, copies of the Constitution, and handing out roses. Several donned Spider-Man masks and called themselves “baddies,” emphasizing their defiant spirit.

    Nearby, 19-year-old Arpita Verma remarked, “There’s been too much Hindu-Muslim politics in India,” referencing the increasing religious polarization under Modi’s party, which is mainly supported by the Hindu majority. She added, “But here, we are united by a common cause — and we’re not afraid.”

  • Saudi Student Mohammed Al Qassim Fatally Stabbed Near Cambridge, Suspect’s Photo

    Saudi Student Mohammed Al Qassim Fatally Stabbed Near Cambridge, Suspect’s Photo

    Digital Phablet – The tragic murder of Saudi student Mohammed Al Qassim continues to evoke worldwide outrage.

    Also ReadEgyptian TikTok star Suzy El Ordoneya arrested in major money laundering and cybercrime caseEgyptian TikTok star Suzy El Ordoneya detained in significant money laundering and cybercrime investigation

    A Saudi student, Mohammed Al Qassim, was fatally stabbed Friday evening in a park south of Cambridge, UK, authorities have verified. The incident has sparked an active investigation, with two individuals detained so far, according to a report from Al Ekhbariya TV.

    Cambridge Crown Court in Britain addressed the case initially on Tuesday. Murder charges have been filed against the suspect. The suspect denied involvement in front of the judge, leading the court to postpone a verdict and request further investigation.

    Image from social media showing Mohammed Al Qassim and the accused

    Beyond being a scholarship recipient, the late Mohammed Al Qassim was celebrated for his strong moral values and his voluntary service welcoming guests to the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Thousands shared images of him in volunteer attire during the Hajj pilgrimage, expressing both pride and sorrow.

    “A noble young man from Saudi Arabia, celebrated for his devoutness to his parents and his dedicated volunteer service assisting the Guests of God at the Grand Mosque in Mecca,” stated Saudi Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah in a heartfelt message on X in honor of Mohammed Al Qassim. I extend my deepest condolences to his family. May Allah be merciful and forgive him. Mishary Rashid Alafasy further commented: “As a Muslim, a Quran memorizer, a servant of God’s guests, a seeker of knowledge, and a proud son of our nation, we owe Mohammed Al Qassim a debt. His life was tragically cut short.”

    Responses extended beyond officials. A personal letter penned by Mohammed Al Qassim to his sister before his passing was shared by her, evoking widespread grief. “My sister… you are a source of pride and support,” he wrote. “I swear to God I love you with an immense love, even though I feel a strange, indescribable emotion.” Mohammed’s innocence and kindness shine through in these heartfelt words, merging pride with sorrow. Many have remarked that Mohammed “departed in body but left a fragrant legacy behind.”

    In addition to grief, Fayez Al-Maliki shared a photo of Mohammed Al Qassim with this message: “May Allah comfort and strengthen his family’s hearts.” #Al-Qassim Muslim. We pray Allah grants him paradise. To honor Mohammed, friends and followers have turned his posts, memories, and even the photo of his prayer rug—left exactly as he left it—into poignant symbols. As investigations progress and justice remains awaited, audiences across Arab and Gulf nations are closely following every development, hoping for a fair resolution and closure of the accused’s trial.

  • Trump Issues Proclamation Halting Harvard Student Visas

    Trump Issues Proclamation Halting Harvard Student Visas

    Sure! Here’s a revised version of the content in American English, ensuring it’s unique and original:

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    Harvard Business School campus viewed from a distance in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on April 15, 2025. — Reuters

    On Wednesday, President Donald Trump issued a directive suspending the entry of foreign nationals wishing to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard University, according to the White House. This move comes amid a growing conflict between the Trump administration and the prestigious Ivy League school.

    The directive also instructs the State Department to “consider revoking” the academic or exchange visas of any current Harvard students who fall under the criteria specified in the proclamation.

    Last month, the State Department ordered its embassies and consulates around the world to implement additional scrutiny of visa applicants aiming to travel to Harvard for any purpose, as detailed in an internal communication seen by Reuters.

    Harvard contends that the Trump administration is retaliating against the institution for not yielding to its demands regarding the governance, curriculum, and political views of its faculty and students.

    The two-page proclamation stated that Harvard has a “notable history of troubling foreign connections and radical viewpoints.”

    The FBI has repeatedly cautioned that foreign adversaries exploit easy access to U.S. higher education to steal sensitive information, exploit research and development, and propagate misinformation, as noted in the proclamation.

    A student at a Harvard graduation event wearing a cap inscribed with a message in support of international students, May 29, 2025. — Reuters
    A student at a Harvard graduation event wearing a cap inscribed with a message in support of international students, May 29, 2025. — Reuters

    The proclamation claimed that there has been a “significant increase in crime” at Harvard in recent years, while the university allegedly failed to address certain types of misconduct among its community.

    Furthermore, it accused Harvard of not adequately informing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about foreign students engaged in “illegal or dangerous activities.”

    The proclamation criticized Harvard for its “extensive dealings with foreign adversaries,” citing that the institution received over $150 million from China alone. It further claimed that several individuals involved in antisemitic incidents on campus were identified as foreign students.

    These new restrictions on student visas for Harvard represent another facet of the Trump administration’s campaign against the U.S.’s oldest and wealthiest university.

    This action follows previous attempts to halt billions in grants and funding, challenge the university’s tax-exempt status, and launch probes into whether Harvard discriminated against white, Asian, male, or heterosexual employees and job applicants.

    Trump has accused leading U.S. universities of fostering anti-American sentiment. Just last month, his administration attempted to revoke Harvard’s ability to accept foreign students, although this action was eventually blocked by a federal judge.

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  • US Student Visa Hold to Be Brief, Says State Department

    US Student Visa Hold to Be Brief, Says State Department

    US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce addresses various issues including the Ukraine crisis and Middle East situations during her first press briefing in Washington, DC, on March 17, 2025.

    WASHINGTON: The United States has clarified that the current halt in student visa processing is temporary.

    The State Department has reassured international students that appointments for visas are expected to resume shortly, even as new regulations regarding social media monitoring are being formulated.

    State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce advised prospective students to pursue scheduling their visa appointments, stating, “I wouldn’t suggest this if it were going to take weeks or months.”

    She added, “I believe we can expect this to happen sooner rather than later,” while speaking with reporters.

    On Tuesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio mandated that embassies and consulates pause student visa appointment scheduling until new guidelines for social media examination are released.

    This decision is part of a series of confrontations regarding education from President Donald Trump’s administration, which has revoked thousands of visas, attempted to prevent Harvard University from enrolling international students, and promised aggressive visa cancellations for Chinese nationals.

    Rubio has previously revoked the visas of multiple students who participated in protests critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, citing a seldom-used law that allows for the removal of individuals acting against US foreign policy interests.

    In a communication to diplomatic missions on Tuesday, Rubio indicated that new guidance on social media screening would be provided in the coming days.

    Bruce further encouraged prospective students to regularly check online for available appointment slots.

    “Currently, there might be some delays, and I’ve been advised to tell people to keep checking for when those slots become available,” she remarked.