Vice-Chancellor statement on the Türkiye/Syria earthquakes

Over the past few days we have all seen with great concern the devastating impact of the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.  

The University of London has close and highly valued ties with both countries. We have contacted our Turkish and Syrian students and alumni to let them know they are in our thoughts and that we will provide what assistance we can to help them through this distressing time. 

The School of Advanced Study has been in touch with CARA, the Council for At-Risk Academics, to express its concern and offer its support. 

I also want to extend my sympathies to any of our staff and UK-based students who have a personal or family connection to this unfolding natural disaster. Please let us know if we can be of assistance. 

I am hopeful that the incredible resilience of the Turkish and Syrian people, much on display in recent years, will help them through this dreadful time. It is wonderful to see the international community responding with such speed and bringing all possible resources to bear. 

If you’re interested in supporting rescue and recovery efforts, please consider the following: 

•    British Red Cross Türkiye-Syria Earthquake Appeal

•    UNICEF Türkiye and Syria Appeal

•    CARA (Council for At-Risk Academics)

Wendy Thomson
Vice-Chancellor
University of London