Former US President Donald Trump has announced the end of his long-standing feud with Harvard University, sealing the truce with a landmark $500 million deal aimed at expanding trade schools and vocational education programs.
For years, Trump had been openly critical of elite institutions, including Harvard, accusing them of promoting what he described as “elitist agendas” and overlooking the importance of practical skills education. However, in a surprising turn, Trump declared that “their sins are forgiven,” as both sides reached an agreement to channel substantial funding into strengthening vocational training across the country.
The $500 million partnership will reportedly focus on establishing new trade schools, upgrading infrastructure, and introducing skill-based programs that target industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare services, and advanced technologies. The initiative seeks to create alternative pathways for students who may not pursue traditional university degrees but aspire to build careers in high-demand sectors.
Speaking about the deal, Trump emphasized the need to “bring back respect for hands-on work” and said the collaboration would open opportunities for millions of young Americans. He also framed the agreement as a victory for middle-class families, arguing that vocational training often leads to stable, well-paying jobs without the burden of heavy student debt.
Harvard officials welcomed the collaboration, describing it as a step toward bridging gaps between traditional academic education and skill-based learning. University representatives highlighted that the partnership would not only enhance access to technical training but also reshape public perceptions around vocational careers.
Policy analysts note that the deal marks a rare convergence of Trump’s populist rhetoric with the priorities of an elite institution, signaling a pragmatic approach to addressing workforce shortages and economic demands. The initiative is expected to generate widespread attention across political and educational circles, given both Trump’s contentious history with universities and the scale of investment involved.
If implemented successfully, the project could emerge as a model for combining public-private partnerships with higher education to expand vocational opportunities, while potentially reshaping the narrative around trade schools in the United States.
