Gaza Education Assistance and Relief (GEAR)

The GEAR Program will provide vital support and financial assistance to students from Gaza who are pursuing higher education. Recognizing the immense challenges these students face due to the destruction of Gaza, our aim is to alleviate student’s financial burdens and empower them to succeed academically.

If you are a student from Gaza who is currently enrolled in higher education please see the financial assistance you may apply for:

  • Student Scholarships: Students may apply for a scholarship for tuition, university fees, and living expenses.
  • Emergency Financial Assistance: Students may apply at any time. The GEAR Program is available to provide financial assistance to students that need immediate support to stay enrolled in school.
  • ASAI Student Loans: 0% interest student loan repayable 6 months after graduation date. See Student Aid page

To apply for GEAR Student Scholarships or Emergency Financial Assistance complete the following items and send them to application@arabstudentaid.org

  • Application Forms (A-1 & A-2 & A-3). Please complete all items to the best of your ability and provide information about missing documents in the Additional Notes section (A-3).
  • Provide your most recent original university transcript.
  • Send a copy of your passport including pages of student visa.
  • Send a recent passport size photo that can be used by ASAI.
  • Send a scanned copy of your university ID, front and back.
  • Provide a copy of your national ID card, (front and back).
  • Provide the name and contact information of two references. (Reference from university professional is desirable)
  • Send an Official Letter of Enrollment from the University registrar.

DONATE

To Gaza Education Assistance and Relief by selecting GEAR on the ASAI donation page

Please contribute to GEAR and support students from Gaza who are pursuing higher education. Through our fundraising efforts, we strive to ensure that students from Gaza will have access to educational opportunities that will not only transform their lives but also enable them to become future leaders and advocates for positive change in their communities.


The Faces Behind Our Mission

Hussam Qutub

Hussam Qutub, Vice President of the Board of Directors for Arab Student Aid International, has nearly 30 years of experience in business development, supporting US companies entering MENA markets. He has advised over 300 US companies and the Ohio State Government, specializing in trade agreements and export/import legislation. Hussam holds an MBA in International Business and Logistics and has studied Commercial Law.

Abd Basheer, PhD

Abd Bashir, originally from Deir al Balah in Gaza, holds a PhD from Washington State University. With over 15 years in program management, he’s the Learning and Development Program Manager at Carnival Cruise Line, fostering growth and a culture of learning. Known for his collaborative leadership, Abd is dedicated to supporting Gazan students’ higher education pursuits, aiming to create avenues for them to access quality education and unlock their potential.

Lana Alagha, PhD

Dr. Lana Alagha, an Associate Professor at Missouri S&T in Mining & Nuclear Engineering, holds a PhD in Chemistry and Nanotechnology from the University of Texas at Dallas. With extensive postdoctoral experience in Canada, her research spans colloid science, synthetic chemistry, and clean coal technology. Dr. Alagha teaches mineral processing courses and is a member of SME and ACS, actively advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

Ghazi Abuhakema, PhD

Ghazi Abuhakema, Associate Professor at the College of Charleston, co-founded GEAR to support Palestinian students in US universities. With a deep-rooted commitment to creating transformative opportunities, GEAR strives to ensure equal access to higher education for Palestinian refugees, fostering a future where education transcends boundaries and empowers individuals to realize their full potential.

Melissa Saul, PhD

Melissa has over 30 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member, researcher, and student services director. Her PhD focused on Palestinian education under occupation. Dedicated to equity and justice, she has secured numerous grants and led an educational delegation to Palestine. An Arab-American advocate, Melissa supports GEAR in fundraising and strategic planning to empower Palestinian youth.

Sahar Abuimara

Sahar Abu-Shawish is a board-certified infectious disease pharmacist with extensive experience. She holds a Pharmacy degree from Alazhar University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Ohio Northern University. Currently working in two Toledo hospitals and volunteering at Halim Clinic, Sahar is dedicated to social justice and education, supporting GEAR’s mission to help Gaza’s students worldwide.

Sami Nassar, PhD

Dr. Sami Nasser, a Palestinian entrepreneur residing in California, is a dedicated advocate for Arab youth education. With a strong background in entrepreneurship, he actively supports initiatives that provide educational opportunities and resources for Arab students. Dr. Nasser’s commitment to empowering the next generation is evident through his efforts to create pathways for young people to achieve their academic and professional goals. His work focuses on fostering a brighter future for the Arab community by ensuring access to quality education and mentorship for Arab youth.