Nigora Jabborova, a Fulbright Scholar and MBA student, recently shared her experience of having her contract abruptly terminated by the U.S. Department of State. The decision, reportedly linked to federal budget cuts, was implemented without prior notice or adherence to standard procedures. Even the Institute of International Education (IIE), the organization responsible for sponsoring Fulbright participants, was left uninformed, creating confusion among scholars and administrators.
With only three months remaining until graduation, the sudden loss of financial support has placed her in a difficult position both professionally and personally. As Fulbright participants are not permitted to seek outside employment, the termination of stipends has left many struggling to afford essential expenses such as rent and food.
This decision comes alongside a freeze in funding for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, which oversees the Fulbright Program and other international exchange initiatives. Scholars impacted by these cuts are facing financial hardship, and the program’s mission of fostering international collaboration is now at risk.
Jabborova voiced concerns that these actions could set back decades of progress in building diplomatic and educational partnerships. The program has long played a significant role in international engagement, and sudden disruptions like this could undermine years of effort in strengthening global ties.
In response to this situation, she is reaching out to her professional network for support, seeking guidance from legal experts, policymakers, and advocates who may be able to assist. By engaging in policy discussions, exploring legal options, and increasing public awareness, she hopes to encourage decision-makers to reconsider the funding freeze.
The termination notice cited alignment with agency priorities and national interest as the rationale for ending the award, attributing the decision to a directive from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
