Pakistan Ends Enrollment of Afghan Medical Students, Sparking Outrage

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has halted the enrollment of Afghan students in medical universities and ordered their expulsion. This decision aligns with the country’s national policy, requiring universities to comply with the directive.

Enrollment of Afghan Students Cancelled

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has officially decided to revoke the enrollment of Afghan students in medical universities and has issued orders for their immediate expulsion. This body has made the decision based on its authority to monitor educational standards in accordance with national policy.

Universities Required to Comply

The council has instructed universities to submit a report on the implementation of this decision within three days, warning that legal actions will be taken against those who fail to comply. Following this announcement, Afghan students have been informed that they must vacate their residences.

Severe Impact on Students

KING Edward Medical University in Lahore has released a list of 22 Afghan students, requesting that they complete their exit procedures within 24 hours. Similarly, Nishter Medical University in Multan has directed Afghan students to leave their accommodations and obtain exit documentation from the administration. This abrupt decision undermines the efforts these students have made towards their education.

Afghan Students Speak Out Against Injustice

Faiz Wardak, a final-year Afghan student at Nishter Medical University, spoke to Radio Azadi about the injustice of their expulsion just months before graduation. He noted that issues related to their visa and academic documentation have stalled, leading to the despair of both the students and their families.

Pressure on Afghan Students and Its Consequences

Sadiq Sharifi, head of the Afghan Student Association in Islamabad, stated that thousands of Afghan students reside in Pakistan, with approximately 800 enrolled in medical fields. He emphasized that this move sacrifices their education due to political and diplomatic disputes. The impact is particularly severe for Afghan girls, as returning to their home country would mean the end of their education.

Criticism of the Dental Council’s Decision

Human rights activists and legal experts have condemned the Pakistan Dental Council’s actions as a violation of human rights principles and international law. With growing pressures from the Pakistani government on Afghan students, the situation for these students is becoming increasingly dire.