Mentoring

Gaza International Student Network 

The Gaza International Student Network (GISN) connects highly motivated students from Gaza with international university students, fostering academic support, intercultural dialogue, and hope for the future. It is led by the Alama Association, in partnership with the Taalam School, the NYI Global Institute of Cultural, Cognitive, and Linguistic Studies (NYI), and the Collectif du Personnel Universitaire pour la Palestine de l'Université de Genève (CPUP). The program offers Gazan students personalized mentorship by international students and access to international learning opportunities.

Initially designed for the students of Taalam School with an academic profile, the program is also open to other motivated students from Gaza who wish to pursue academic studies, in Gaza or abroad. Each Gazan student will be paired with a mentor: a university student or PhD from Geneva, NYI or other international universities.

One or two mentors are paired with each Gazan student for a period of six months, committing a minimum of two hours per week to online meetings or asynchronous exchanges. The role of the mentors is to provide academic guidance, linguistic support, and encouragement, helping the Gazan students to:

• Explore international online university certified courses;

• Explore university programs and scholarship opportunities abroad;

• Prepare application materials such as CVs and motivation letters;

• Strengthen English skills and academic communication;

• Discover aspects of academic culture and student life in other contexts;

• Build confidence and maintain hope for their educational future.

In parallel, Gazan students can attend online courses and workshops in a variety of domains, provided by academic institutions internationally, covering topics such as linguistics, English literature, cultural and gender studies, and the arts (creative writing, translation, poetry, filmmaking). 

Gaza students involved in the program have access to a dedicated room at Taalam School in Nuseirat camp, equipped with stable internet access, a laptop, beamer, screen, speakers, microphones, and solar power. This facility is made possible through the generous funding of NYI. This space serves as a hub for online classes and exchanges, ensuring reliable communication, providing a supportive study environment, and developing a sense of community.

To foster collaboration and community, three WhatsApp groups are created: one for all international students, one for all Gazan students, and one shared group bringing everyone together. These spaces allow participants to exchange materials, share advice and tips, coordinate meetings, and celebrate progress collectively. Mentors receive orientation and ongoing support from the program team. 

At the end of the program, all students receive a certificate of participation and recognition from the organizing partners. By combining mentorship, language practice, and international collaboration, the Gaza International Student Network aims to expand academic horizons, nurture resilience, and equip young Gazans with the tools and connections needed to pursue higher education and rebuild their communities.