Is the statement made by the father of the betrothed girl to her paternal cousin: "I have married my daughter to you and I permit you everything except to consummate the marriage with her," in the presence of listeners, and the suitor's response: "I accept," considered a valid marriage contract?

For a marriage contract, there must be a formula (offer and acceptance) and male witnesses who hear the offer and acceptance.

What your father said does not indicate marriage, and your cousin's acceptance was secret. Therefore, this marriage is not considered valid, and you remain a stranger to him.

You must expedite the completion of the marriage and not delay it due to studies, to avoid missing out on potential benefits and preventing potential harms.