Canadian-Palestinian Educational Exchange (CEPAL)

Supporting Palestinian Refugee Students Since 1995

As a volunteer-run Canadian non-governmental organization (NGO) and registered charity, we have been supporting Palestinian refugees to access and continue education since 1995. To date, our programs have focused on supporting Palestinian students in Lebanon’s refugee camps, particularly through English-language programming critical to enable them to continue their education. 

Building on our long history, we are proud to launch our newest program, Higher Education Access for Palestine (HEAP). The HEAP Program will provide displaced Palestinian students with the financial support to enable them to continue their higher education at universities around the world. 

To kick-start the first phase of the HEAP Program, CEPAL is fundraising to help displaced students from Gaza continue their education at universities in Malaysia. 

Snapshot of the HEAP Program

Our first phase of the HEAP program will focus on supporting displaced Palestinian students from Gaza, with the goal of eventually expanding the program to support Palestinian refugee students from the West Bank, Lebanon, and other countries. 

Funding will cover: 

• Tuition remaining after scholarships/financial assistance from universities
• School supplies and books
• Laptops and phones, as needed
• University residence fees/off-campus rent
• Country residency fees
• Living expenses (e.g., groceries, transportation costs, clothing)
• Access to psychosocial supports (e.g., specialized services, counselling)

Why is the HEAP Program Critical Today?

The ongoing genocide has displaced 90% of Gaza’s population and destroyed most infrastructure in the Gaza Strip. It is estimated that Gaza would take more than 10 years to rebuild. 

With all 6 of Gaza's universities destroyed, Palestinians from Gaza need to be able to continue their education in other countries around the world. Education empowers and enables Palestinians to prosper and give back to their communities in countless ways. Access to higher education will allow them to create the vibrant future that all Palestinians deserve. 

As students continue their education, it is crucial that we ensure they have access to psychosocial supports. Students from Gaza have experienced immense trauma, and many of their loved ones continue to live through the genocide. Psychosocial supports are essential to ensure students can succeed in their educational journeys and integrate into their new communities. 

How You Can Help

Your support helps Palestinian students overcome education  barriers to build a better future. Donate today to make a lasting impact.