Part of 3. Topical Questions – in the Senedd at 3:23 pm on 23 March 2022.
Minister, the University of New Europe, a collective of academics from across Europe and the US, has published a comprehensive document that contains emergency contact details and funding opportunities for scholars, students, artists, cultural workers, journalists, lawyers and human rights activists fleeing Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. As we accommodate and welcome refugees fleeing the crisis and its effects in Ukraine, our universities, educational and cultural institutions have the chance to offer a breadth of opportunity and support for those coming to Wales. Providing this would help refugees settle in and feel involved in their communities, as well, of course, as enhancing the diversity in thought at our universities and among our academic and cultural networks. Would the Government consider co-ordinating a response from our universities and cultural institutions so a similar guide and system of support could be provided? How is the Minister currently working with our universities and cultural institutions to provide support and opportunity to refugees, and will the Government provide financial support for this response?