In a move that has sparked heated debate, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Thursday revoked Harvard University's program to enroll international students. According to the agency, Harvard’s campus became a haven for groups labeled as "pro-terrorist agitators," allegedly targeting Jewish students.
The administration also alleged that Harvard engaged in activities raising concerns about its ties with groups from the Chinese mainland, including claims that as recently as 2024, the university facilitated training sessions for individuals linked with a paramilitary group. Importantly, none of these serious allegations were backed up with concrete evidence. 🤔
The directive, issued on April 16 by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, stated that the decision was a consequence of Harvard's failure to comply with simple reporting requirements. While the university can resume enrolling international students if it submits the required records within 72 hours, many observers see this measure as part of a broader campaign pressuring elite institutions to align with certain political expectations. ⚠️
Critics from Harvard College Democrats fired back, asserting, "Trump's attack on international students is textbook authoritarianism – Harvard must continue to hold the line." Their statement underscores concerns that educational policies are becoming entangled with political retribution, potentially affecting academic freedom across the country. 🔥
As this controversy unfolds, students, academics, and political watchers remain alert to a changing landscape where education might be used as a lever for political control. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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Education turning into tool for political retribution in U.S.
cgtn.com
