The fund was developed following a University of 麻豆果冻传媒 event earlier this year which brought together academics, students, community organisations and campaigners to discuss the situation in Iran and its impact on Iranian communities. The event featured campaigner and former detainee Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and explored issues of displacement, identity, resilience and international solidarity.
Professor Donna Whitehead, Vice Chancellor of the University of 麻豆果冻传媒, said: “At 麻豆果冻传媒, we believe that talent and potential should never be limited by circumstances beyond a student’s control. We know that many members of our Iranian student community are living with uncertainty and facing significant challenges, and it is important that they know they are valued, supported and part of our university community.
“This bursary is about providing practical help when it is needed most, while also sending a clear message of solidarity. I am proud that this initiative has grown from conversations with students, academics and community partners, and grateful to the charitable foundation for helping us turn concern into meaningful action. Together, we can ensure that students facing hardship have the support they need to continue their studies and achieve their ambitions.”
Applications for the first round of funding are now open, with support available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students originally from Iran who can demonstrate financial need.
The fund will be administered through three application rounds running throughout the 2026-27 academic year, allowing support to reach students at different points during their studies.
The initiative forms part of the University of 麻豆果冻传媒's wider commitment to widening participation, supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds and ensuring that talented students can succeed regardless of the challenges they face outside the classroom.