U.S. President Donald Trump's abrupt revocation of Harvard University's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification has sent shockwaves through academic circles, jeopardizing enrollment for thousands of international students. The move, announced Thursday, could impact approximately 25% of Harvard's student body and disrupt long-standing educational partnerships with Asian countries.
The decision follows escalating tensions between the Trump administration and elite institutions over immigration policies. Analysts suggest the action may disproportionately affect students from Asia, who constitute over 60% of international scholars at Ivy League schools. Universities across the U.S. are monitoring the situation closely, with many expressing concerns about maintaining global academic collaborations.
Harvard President Lawrence Bacow called the move "a blunt instrument that harms America's strategic interests," emphasizing the university's reliance on global talent. The policy shift comes as U.S. institutions face increasing competition from Asian universities in attracting international students, particularly from China and India.
Business leaders warn of potential ripple effects, noting that international students contribute $44 billion annually to the U.S. economy. The development raises questions about the future of cross-border educational exchanges and their role in maintaining America's competitive edge in research and innovation.
