State Department's funding freeze leaves scholars in uncertain waters in America

A sudden funding freeze by the US government has left thousands of international scholars in financial turmoil, disrupting their academic missions and cultural exchange programmes. Scholars participating in prestigious initiatives like Fulbright and Gilman have seen their stipends abruptly suspended, with no communication on future payments. This uncertainty has forced scholars to rely on personal savings or host institutions, while the fate of their research and teaching engagements remains unclear. The ongoing funding pause has also strained host institutions, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of these global academic partnerships.