University of British Columbia graduate student Rumana Monzur is en route to Vancouver accompanied by her father. Monzur, who was severely beaten in an attack in June, will receive further medical evaluation and treatment in Canada. The two are expected to arrive Tuesday afternoon.
EDITORS: A UBC spokesperson will be available from 11:45 a.m. -12:15 p.m. on campus at St. John’s College (2111 Lower Mall – Map: www.maps.ubc.ca/?822-1) to answer questions about the university’s efforts to support Monzur when she returns. Student friends of Monzur of will also be available.
A masters student in Political Science, Monzur was visiting her home city of Dhaka, Bangladesh, when she was attacked. Monzur’s eyes were significantly damaged. Her husband has been charged with attempted murder in connection to the attack.
When it became evident that Monzur might benefit from further care, UBC actively supported efforts to bring her to Vancouver. The university is grateful for the prompt attention and support of the Department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada, which has issued six-month temporary residence permits.
UBC has worked to organize medical evaluations and travel, and has committed to providing accommodations for Monzur and her family for six months. The family will be relying on donations to provide further support.
Building off of the initial efforts of UBC students to raise funds to help Monzur, the university community has continued raising funds to cover health needs, living expenses and costs related to Monzur completing her studies. To date more than $35,000 has been raised. While the full extent of medical and rehabilitative costs are not yet known, the university has set a goal of $70,000 in hopes of covering all costs for the family while Rumana recovers and completes her studies.
“I want to thank all those who have responded so generously,” said UBC President Stephen Toope. “I know Canadians will continue to respond and help provide the support Ms. Monzur and her family need.”
For more information about Monzur or to make a donation, please visit: www.ubc.ca/helprumana. For details on the 11:45 a.m. media availability at UBC, contact Heather Amos at 604.828.3867 or heather.amos@ubc.ca.