On Friday, President Trump stated in the Oval Office that Harvard “needs to change its direction” after revealing that his Department of Homeland Security (DHS) planned to revoke the university’s authority to recognize foreign students.
“Billions of dollars have gone to Harvard. Isn’t that absurd?” he remarked.
When asked about possibly revoking the ability of other schools to accept international students, Trump responded, “We’re looking into it.” This followed recent comments from DHS.
Additionally, Trump has proposed introducing math courses to help students struggling with basic algebra skills.
“Students can’t even do simple addition, yet they get into Harvard. They need remedial math… why are they here? How is it possible for individuals who can’t add to be admitted to Harvard?” he questioned.
“And then, they have the same individuals claiming that America is anti-Semitic.”
A judge announced on Friday a temporary hold on the DHS directive that sought to prevent foreign students from entering Harvard and set a hearing for the following Thursday.
This directive marks an escalation in the ongoing conflict between Trump and Harvard, which has faced $3 billion in funding cuts, multiple investigations, and potential threats to its tax-exempt status.
Harvard is also suing the administration over a freeze on fundraising efforts.
