American U. of Afghanistan Could Close
The American University of Afghanistan could shut down later this year if the U.S. government cuts funding to the country’s only western-style institution. CNN reports that administrators are drawing up plans if the college does not receive financial support from the U.S. Agency for International Development, which currently provides about 60 percent of its $28-million annual budget. USAID officials have not committed to providing the money and say they have urged the university’s president and trustees to diversify its funding sources. If the 14-year-old university were to close when current funding runs out in May, 800 students would be left in the middle of degree programs. Read some of the Chronicle’s early reporting on the institution, including this piece about its first graduation.
Hillary Clinton Takes University Position
Queen’s University Belfast has named Hillary Clinton, the former first lady and presidential candidate, as its new chancellor. The role of chancellor differs somewhat in Northern Ireland from the United States — Clinton will preside at ceremonial functions and act as an “ambassador,” helping open doors for the university. She also will be an adviser, available as a sounding board and to provide guidance to university leaders. Her five-year term began January 1.
Students Attacked on Indian Campus
Masked assailants attacked students and instructors at Jawaharlal Nehru University, one of India’s most prestigious campuses. More than 30 people were injured in the violence Sunday night, including the president of the university’s student union, who was allegedly beaten on the head with iron rods. The student union president, Aishe Ghosh, accused the attackers of being associated with India’s ruling Hindu nationalist party and criticized police for failing to intervene. Students at the university had been protesting an increase in fees.
Protests Over University Admissions Rock Chile
Protestors disrupted nationwide college-entrance exams in Chile, with some students blocking access to test sites and burning exam papers. Authorities suspended the test in 64 of more than 700 exam centers around the country on Monday, citing the safety of students, staff members, and exam materials. Demonstrators complain that the country’s university-admission system is elitist and unequal, favoring students who attend better schools, live in wealthier communities, and have greater resources to prepare for it.
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