Palestinian student denied Irish scholarship visa says rejection shatters his hopes

Hazem Faris, a 19-year-old Palestinian from Gaza City, was set to begin a computer-science degree at South East Technological University’s Waterford campus after receiving a full scholarship covering tuition, accommodation and living costs. In July, his visa application, together with those of two other Palestinian students, was rejected by the Department of Justice, a decision he called “the worst feeling I have ever experienced.”

Faris, who has been displaced seven times and lost his home in Khan Yunis, also recounted the deaths of neighbours and friends during the war. Setu sanctuary chairwoman Sarah Sartori said the students had a legitimate expectation to study in Ireland and expressed outrage at the sudden refusals, noting that no procedural changes had occurred. She reported that some students chained themselves to the Department of Justice office in protest. The department declined to comment on individual cases but said each appeal is being processed promptly.