Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Take a peek behind the curtain and test drive the NEW StateNews.com today!

Libyan students’ program could end

October 23, 2011

After spending months in an international diplomatic program, 19 Libyan students’ time in Michigan might be finished.

The Visiting International Professional Program, or VIPP, no longer will be held at MSU, Libyan officials announced Thursday.

The program, which was funded by Libya’s National Economic Development Board, will be consolidated at American University in Washington, D.C., because of budget concerns, university spokesman Kent Cassella said.

In March, Libyan students’ scholarships at MSU were suspended as the government erupted in revolution.

In a previous interview, Ahmed Ghanbi, a VIPP member, said he has been waiting for months to find out whether he can continue his education. So far, he still has not received official notification from the government about the program’s continuation at American University.

American University officials are considering accepting MSU students to their program, but no decision has been made at this point, American University spokeswoman Maralee Csellar said.

University officials are considering giving VIPP students a certificate, credits or other recognition for their efforts in the program so far, although it is uncertain whether their credits will transfer to other universities, Cassella said.

Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.

Discussion

Share and discuss “Libyan students’ program could end ” on social media.