Universities of Sanctuary Newsletter

Dear colleagues and friends,

We hope this mailing finds you and your communities well.

It has been inspiring to see the work of universities that applied for a Sanctuary Award this year. Seeing the incredible efforts across our network to create inclusive and supportive environments has been a great source of hope and inspiration. We are still working through these and look forward to celebrating the success of many universities with you soon.

In this newsletter, we bring you the latest updates including new British Council report on HE partnerships in conflict zones, a UNHCR course on HE provision in Refugee-hosting countries, and a call to action from We Belong. We hope you find it interesting.

Kind regards,

Maryam Taher
[email protected]

News from the network

Congratulations to the University of Southampton!

The University of Southampton has been awarded University of Sanctuary for its commitments including Sanctuary Scholarships, research on migration and social justice, partnerships with local organisations to assist refugees, and collaborates with the Council for At-Risk Academics to provide a safe environment for scholars.

See full article

New Research Report & Panel Event: 'It's not just opening the doors'- challenges and possibilities for refugees' HE access - Bristol University

Despite growing opportunities, only 7% of refugees access higher education, with UNHCR targeting 15% by 2030. This study interviews 38 participants from refugee backgrounds, universities,(FE) colleges, NGOs, and local authorities, addressing HE’s benefits for refugees, the barriers and resources affecting HE access, and the challenges and possibilities for progression. See full report

Event registration

UCL's University of Sanctuary journey: Insights and Future Plans

In this insightful Q&A by UCL's Centre for Humanities Education (CHE), PhD candidate Freya Proudman highlights UCL’s efforts to support displaced students, including scholarships, specialised psychological support, and student outreach, while discussing the gaps and ongoing efforts to enhance and improve the current support system for this group of students.

Home Office Fee increase from 9th April

The Labour Government has announced further increases in visa fees, effective 9th April 2025, adding to recent sharp rises in the Immigration Health Surcharge and application costs. We Belong warns that these changes will worsen financial hardship for young migrants and families. Many may find themselves priced out of the immigration system. The organisation urges the government to reconsider and conduct a full review of visa fees. Those affected can seek support through We Belong’s legal advice clinic and listening space.

Take Action

Links and Resources

New Report: Higher Education Partnerships in Conflict-Affected Regions

A new British Council report explores how UK universities are partnering with institutions in conflict-affected regions to support education, research, and peacebuilding. Highlighting key case studies, it examines opportunities, challenges, and the role of equitable collaboration in reconstruction efforts. The report calls for greater funding, long-term commitment, and institutional support to maximise impact.

Read full report

Collaboration Opportunity: English Language Programmes with Breaking Barriers

Breaking Barriers (formerly Refuaid) offers a collaboration opportunity for universities to develop English language support. Their Language Programme has helped students overcome linguistic barriers and succeed in HE and professional requalification. After successful partnerships with universities like Manchester and Leicester, they aim to expand their network. Contact Ilaria for more information ([email protected])

Learn more

Case Study: Developing and Critically Evaluating RefugEAP - an English for Academic Purposes Programme for Refugees

RefugEAP is an online, trauma-informed English for Academic Purposes course aimed at refugee-background students in the UK. It addresses educational barriers by providing tailored academic language support, considering the unique challenges of this group. This study evaluates the course's effectiveness, emphasising the importance of personalised feedback and support for better outcomes.

Read here

FREE Course on Connected HE in Refugee Communities

Join the new course, Connected Higher Education in Refugee Communities, developed by UNHCR and Centreity. This 6-week, self-paced programme offers university staff the skills to design higher education opportunities in refugee-hosting areas. Learn through a mix of self-study and live sessions, and connect with fellow educators and humanitarians. The course starts on May 19th 2025, is free for university staff, UNHCR, and NGOs, and offers a certificate upon completion.

Call for Papers: Tackling the Equity Crisis in Global Higher Education

The World Access to Higher Education Network (WAHEN), Centre for Global Higher Education (CGHE), and SKOPE invite submissions for the "Access and Geopolitics: Next Steps in Tackling the Equity Crisis in Global Higher Education" conference. This free, one-day hybrid event will be held on 3rd June 2025 at Ruskin College, Oxford, and online.

Scholars are invited to submit papers on different themes by 31st March 2025 to [email protected]

Click for details

How Can UK Universities Respond to Displacement and Crises Overseas?

This report, compiled by Mosaik, summarises discussions from the "How Can UK Universities Respond to Displacement and Crises Overseas?" event. It explores how UK universities can expand support beyond domestic efforts through transnational education (TNE), digital programs, and engagement with displaced communities. The report calls for better coordination, data access, technical support, funding, partnerships, and policy advocacy to strengthen universities’ impact.

Full report

Scholarships

The Open University Sanctuary Scholarships offers 10 places in 2025. They are open to people seeking refuge in the UK. Deadline: 23rd July 2025
Cardiff Metropolitan sanctuary award is open. Deadline: 1st July 2025 Sanctuary Award | Cardiff Metropolitan University.
More Scholarships on Displaced Student Opportunities

Job Opportunities

Various jobs by the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative (EbE Employment) view here. EbE support lived experience leadership in the migration and refugee sector. They offer career resources, training, and advocacy Sign up for their mailing list to stay updated.
The Launchpad Collective (TLC) connects refugee talent with supportive employers, fostering inclusive workplaces and social change. They offer training and job support to help refugees thrive. View their services here

Stay Connected

Are you a Higher Education professional who wants to hear about updates, recourses and news from the HE and refugee sector? Sign up to the Universities of Sanctuary Jisc List and join the Sanctuary Staff Teams Channel for regular communication and network meetings.
Do you have lived experience of seeking sanctuary and want to hear about latest updates about scholarships, training & funding to access university? Sign up to STAR'S Access to University Mailing List.
For all available scholarship opportunities, refer to the Displaced Students Portal.
Wanting to share opportunities from your university? Sign up to the portal to update and advertise your scholarships, support & more.

Together, we are building a culture of welcome. If you understand the vital importance of building sanctuary in universities and beyond, please dig deep and help City of Sanctuary UK to support the Universities of Sanctuary network during these very challenging times. Click here to donate. Thank you.

City of Sanctuary UK is a registered charity, no. 1184613.

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