Ayoub Mejri

Studying: Hazem Ben-Gacem Oxford-Tunisia Exchange

Ayoub Mejri is part of the first cohort of scholars taking part in the Hazem Ben-Gacem Oxford Tunisia Exchange Programme.

The Programme is the brainchild of Mr Ben-Gacem, who wanted to promote meaningful academic exchange between his native Tunisia and Oxford.  An alumnus of Harvard, Mr Ben-Gacem has funded scholarships for Tunisians to study at Harvard and has underwritten a Harvard Centre in Tunis.  Now connected to Oxford through the College and Middle East Centre, Mr Ben-Gacem makes possible an unprecedented level of exchange between Oxford and North African universities through his generous support.

We spoke to Ayoub about his experiences at St Antony’s College and as part of the University of Oxford during his exchange.

Could you briefly introduce yourself and your research focus?

My name is Ayoub Mejri. I am a DPhil student at the University of Tunis. My research focuses on sub-Saharan African migration in Tunisia, particularly on tracing migrants’ fragmented journeys in the Mediterranean and moving beyond classic transit narratives. This interest came from two things: first, I discovered migration studies during my Master’s days and found the literature engaging and intellectually stimulating; second, the topic aligns with my personal beliefs and values. I believe, in our current context, it is important to study these issues from a critical perspective, from the point of view of the Global South, and to challenge dominant narratives.

What drew you to apply for the Hazem Ben-Gacem Oxford-Tunisia Exchange Programme?

The first time I saw the call for applications; I knew that I had to try. The opportunity to experience academic life at Oxford and to interact with scholars whose work I often read is a once in a lifetime experience.

What has your experience at St Antony’s College been like so far?

It has gone very well. Thanks to the people involved in the programme, the conditions have been very good since my arrival. To be honest, staff and professors were welcoming and helpful. Life at the College is also very enjoyable.

How have you found the academic environment in Oxford?

It is an amazing environment—conditions are ideal for research. Beyond the access to resources and the beautiful, impressive libraries, there’s a strong academic atmosphere throughout the city. Everything feels connected to the University. That is huge! But what mattered most to me was the chance to engage with scholars in my research area and beyond. I had the opportunity to meet academics at St Antony’s, and I was also assigned a mentor from the ODID department – Nao – who was very kind and helpful. I also tried to attend as many seminars and lectures as I could, and these interactions were always enriching. They had a real impact on both my current work and the way I think about future research.

What was your first impression of St Antony’s and has anything changed since you arrived?

My first impression was positive, and it remains so. The College is welcoming, convivial and open. The environment here encourages both academic work and social connection.

Have you had the chance to connect with the broader Oxford community during your stay?

Yes, especially during the first days. I arrived during Easter, before the start of term, which gave me time to settle in and explore the city. I met many people then, and usually people are quite sociable, so I got the chance to make some connections outside the University community. Also, I always try to visit places outside the University, go to cultural events, concerts, or simply local pubs. That is where I made some other connections.

What do you think makes this exchange programme unique or valuable?

Well, as I already mentioned, the academic environment is exceptional. For a DPhil student, or any student, it’s a unique, fruitful experience.  Moreover, the city is also beautiful, authentic, and culturally and historically. There are people from all over the world, so yeah it is a very good programme. I was also fortunate to be there in spring, which made it even better.

What has it been like living in Oxford as a Tunisian student?

Well, I haven’t much thought about it, but it is true but it’s true that I haven’t met many Tunisians here apart from Pr. El Omri and another student at St. Antony’s. It is also the first time that I live in a city where there is no big community of Tunisians. Still, I haven’t faced any challenges. On the contrary, Oxford is a cosmopolitan city, and I think that helps a lot. In fact, people are usually curious and interested when I mention I’m from Tunisia, so it is always a discussion-starter.

Are there any unexpected outcomes from your time at Oxford – personally or academically?

Well, I would not say unexpected, but what but I was struck by how many interesting people I met. Academically, I discovered connections between my work and other regions like South America or Southeast Asia, which I hadn’t truly anticipated. On a personal level, it was the first time I stepped out of my comfort zone, and I wasn’t sure how it would go, what to expect—but it went very well, and I am very happy I did it.

How do you think your time at Oxford will influence your research or future academic goals?

Well, as I mentioned, I got the chance to interact with scholars from different disciplines and regions. This exposed me to perspectives I hadn’t considered before. It also helped me discover recent works/methodologies and what was going on in my research area. On a broader, level this also made me think more clearly about the direction I want to take after my PhD and the kind of research I want to be involved in.

What would you say to future Tunisian students considering applying to the programme?

Just apply! It’s a great opportunity, both academically and personally. The environment is excellent, and the experience is definitely worth it. Prepare a strong research proposal and go for it.