The US Department of Education placed Harvard University under "heightened cash monitoring" on 19/9, citing growing concerns about the university's financial situation. The department referenced prior allegations of civil rights violations and funding irregularities, as well as concerns regarding bond issuances and staff layoffs.

The measure requires Harvard to use its own funds to cover federally-backed student financial aid packages before seeking reimbursement from the government.

"Students will continue to have access to federal aid, but Harvard University will initially cover the disbursements. This safeguard ensures that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly," the Department of Education stated.

A student stands near a Harvard University banner in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in June 2018. Photo: Reuters

A student stands near a Harvard University banner in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in June 2018. Photo: Reuters

Federal officials also demanded a $36 million irrevocable letter of credit from Harvard to "offset potential liabilities and ensure the university meets its financial obligations to both students and the Department of Education." An irrevocable letter of credit is a common financial instrument that serves as a guaranteed payment commitment from a bank.

Harvard University has not yet commented on the matter.

This latest action follows Harvard's recent legal victory against the US government.

Trump administration officials have repeatedly accused Harvard and other universities across the US of promoting "woke ideology" and failing to adequately protect Jewish students during pro-Palestinian demonstrations.

Harvard denies these allegations, stating that the federal government is focusing on controlling the university's hiring, admissions processes, and curriculum.

Earlier this month, a Boston judge ordered the US government to unfreeze approximately $2.6 billion in federal funds allocated to Harvard. The judge argued that the Department of Education had "weaponized antisemitism to carry out a targeted, ideologically motivated attack on the nation's leading universities."

On 19/9, Harvard announced it had begun accessing a portion of the previously frozen funds. "We are pleased to see the release of $46 million in research funding from the US Department of Health and Human Services. This is an initial step, and we expect funding to continue to be restored across all federal agencies," the university stated.

Vu Hoang (According to AFP)