Two Palestinian students, Alaa Ahmad and Ibrahim Mahdi, have
begun postgraduate studies at Queen’s University Belfast under the fully-funded
Copty scholarship, marking a significant opportunity for their academic and
professional growth. Queen’s University, a University of Sanctuary, highlights
its commitment to supporting refugee and disadvantaged communities through
scholarships that open higher education access.
Queen’s University Welcomes Palestinian Postgraduate Students
Queen’s University Belfast has welcomed two new Palestinian students, Alaa Ahmad and Ibrahim Mahdi, who are pursuing postgraduate degrees
supported by the Copty scholarship. This initiative is a fully-paid, one-year
programme designed to transform lives and create educational opportunities for
individuals facing barriers. The scholarship is funded by Chris McDowell and
Georgina Copty, with matching support from Queen’s University Belfast.
Focus Areas and Academic Aspirations
Alaa Ahmad is undertaking a Master’s degree in Artificial
Intelligence (AI), while Ibrahim Mahdi is pursuing a Master’s in Public Health.
Both students have expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the scholarship:
Ibrahim Mahdi said,
“Receiving the Copty scholarship has been a life-changing moment, not only for me, but for my whole family who have supported me along the way. It feels like a shared reward for all the sacrifices and encouragement that brought me here. I have always dreamed of pursuing a Master’s in Public Health, and now with Queen’s, I see a place where I can grow, flourish, and give back. I’m so excited and look forward to making the most of every academic, professional and social opportunity in the upcoming year.”
Alaa Ahmad shared his thoughts, stating,
“Receiving the Copty Scholarship is a great honour that motivates me to pursue excellence at Queen’s University Belfast. In the year ahead, I look forward to deepening my expertise in artificial intelligence, engaging in meaningful research, and building connections that will enable me to give back to my community in Palestine.”
Queen’s University’s Commitment to Refugee and
Disadvantaged Students
Queen’s University Belfast is recognised as a University of
Sanctuary, reflecting its dedication to improving access to education for local
refugee communities and other individuals facing significant barriers.
Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University,
welcomed the students and commented on the importance of scholarships like the
Copty initiative:
“Scholarships play a vital role in helping Queen’s extend access to higher education, ensuring that opportunities are available to those who face significant barriers. They represent an investment not only in individuals, but in the communities they belong to. We are proud to welcome Alaa and Ibrahim to Queen’s, they join a growing cohort of students who have benefitted from the Copty Scholarship. Their journey will not have been easy, but they are now part of the Queen’s global family and will be supported by our entire community. I wish them every success in their studies and in all that lies ahead.”
The arrival of Alaa Ahmad and Ibrahim Mahdi at Queen’s
Belfast under this scholarship programme exemplifies how targeted educational
support can create life-changing opportunities. The students represent wider
hopes for educational advancement amid challenging circumstances and
demonstrate the value of international solidarity in education.