As part of the 2025/2026 academic year, the University of the Republic of San Marino (UNIRSM) is promoting an initiative of great human and symbolic value: the establishment of two scholarships for Palestinian students. This initiative is in line with the initiatives already launched in Italy under the IUPALS project, established following the 2024 Conference of Rectors of Italian Universities. In a historical moment marked by conflict and inequality, the project aims to offer a tangible contribution to the protection of the universal right to education, promoting the reconstruction of life and knowledge paths interrupted by war, in keeping with the values of peace, dignity, and cooperation that inspire the University and the Republic of San Marino.
Learning outcomes
- Guarantee the right to education for young people from war-torn contexts;
- Strengthen San Marino's role as a bridge of peace and cultural diplomacy;
- Support the training of young professionals who can become ambassadors of dialogue and reconstruction in their own territories.
Scholarship Structure
The scholarships, intended for two Gazan students (one female and one male), include:
- Full coverage of university fees at UNIRSM (Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Design);
- Guaranteed accommodation for the first year;
- Monthly maintenance grant of 625 euros for the first year, to support integration and daily life;
- Insurance coverage.
The selected students will be accompanied by an academic tutor and will participate in an Italian language course for foreigners, with dedicated services to help them integrate into the university and civic community of San Marino (free canteen service, free transportation).
Partnership
The project is coordinated by the UNIRSM Internationalization Office, with the support, within their scope, of the Secretariat of State for Foreign Affairs and the Secretariat of State for Education and Culture. Journalist and UNIRSM lecturer Roberta Lippi collaborated on the operational phase, maintaining direct contact with the Palestinian situation and the young candidates. Other stakeholders, such as cultural organizations and local collectives, will contribute to the reception and integration activities.
Free internal transportation, the Italian language course for foreigners, and the canteen service are guaranteed and coordinated by the Secretariat of State for Education and Culture, with the support of all the involved and interested organizations, whom the University thanks for their solidarity and collaboration with this initiative.
Regarding accommodation, an agreement will be signed with the Diocesan Caritas of San Marino-Montefeltro, which, through the Vicariate Caritas of San Marino, will provide accommodation for the two students, promoting their integration and welcome in the Republic of San Marino.
For practical services related to insurance and opening a San Marino bank account, UNIRSM is working on dedicated collaborations with Cassa di Risparmio della Repubblica di San Marino and Generali Assicurazioni, to streamline all administrative procedures and ensure full student protection.