By Ellie Busby
At just 23 years old, Tareq Harara has already experienced more change than most adults will go through in their entire lives.
One year ago, he left Gaza and arrived in Australia as a refugee. Harara has lived and studied in western Sydney since.
“[It’s] safe and it’s home for me, at the moment.”
Tareq Harara is one of the students enrolled in the People Fleeing Conflict Program.Credit: Steven Siewert
For Harara, it was the opportunity to enrol in an education program that really helped to build up his support system and make him feel more at home in what was once an unfamiliar country.
Created in 2024, the People Fleeing Conflict Program from Western Sydney University was designed to support Palestinian, Lebanese and other people seeking refuge in Australia by providing a safe environment where students can work towards achieving their academic and personal goals.
Since its launch, the pathway has supported more than 35 people from Palestine.
As one of six students to have completed the first 10-week session of English for tertiary studies, Harara said it’s more than just a program – it’s hope.
“This program [is] giving me a fresh start,” he said. “It’s helping me to get ready to study [a degree] in cybersecurity, which I really enjoy and hope to work in, and it’s built up my confidence and helped me feel like I’m on the right path with Western Sydney University.
“I just want to say thanks from my heart for Western Sydney University and the academic team [at the Sydney] Olympic Park campus.”
As part of the program, refugees receive tailored advice from welfare officers to identify the most beneficial pathway into study or support based on individual circumstances. This includes English language testing, career consultations, readiness assessment, scholarship advice and foundation or direct entry programs into the university.
Upon completion of the course, Western Sydney University said students will continue to receive support by way of referrals for visa assistance, employment and accommodation support and settlement resources.
The program is helping to bring Roua Elbashety one step closer to her dream of being a nurse.Credit: Steven Siewert
Roua Elbashety, who is also enrolled in the program, said it has not only helped to develop her academic skills but also given her the opportunity to form strong connections with other students.
“This program is really helpful and I’ve really improved my skills, my writing skills, and the academic skills, and on the other hand I improved my communication skills by communicating with people from other countries [and] cultures,” she said.
“[The students] really help each other with the studies and we enjoy spending time together, yes. These friendships make me feel more confident.”
She believes completing the university pathway is the first step in her journey towards achieving her dream of becoming a nurse, a dream she feels is within reach.
Harara said the program has introduced him to a whole new community of people, something he will always be thankful for.
“I did make some great friendships [with people] from all over the world and that means so much to me.”
The Sydney Morning Herald has opened its bureau in the heart of Parramatta. Email parramatta@smh.com.au with news tips.