Pakistan’s Afghan Deportation Drive Threatens Futures of Female Students

Afghan Students Face Deportation Risk in Pakistan as Visa Extensions Remain Suspended

Afghan students pursuing higher education in Pakistan are facing growing uncertainty as visa extensions reportedly remain suspended, putting some at risk of detention and deportation before they can complete their degrees.

The issue has drawn renewed attention following the detention of two Afghan women studying at the International Islamic University Islamabad. The students, who were in advanced stages of their respective courses, were reportedly detained in the Wah Cantt area and taken to the Attock Detention Centre.

Students Fear Disruption To Education

Surooda Rahim and Hasina Rahim were studying in their seventh and sixth semesters respectively when they were detained.

Their cases have triggered calls for Pakistani authorities to halt their deportation and allow them to complete their studies. Supporters say deporting students who have already spent years pursuing their degrees could force them to abandon their education and lose significant academic progress.

The reported suspension of visa extensions for Afghan students has lasted for around 18 months, leaving many enrolled at Pakistani universities uncertain about their legal status and ability to remain in the country.

Visa Uncertainty Adds To Pressure

Afghan students depend on valid visas to continue living and studying in Pakistan. With extensions reportedly unavailable, those whose visas expire face the possibility of detention or removal despite being enrolled in educational institutions.

The situation is unfolding against the backdrop of a broader Pakistani crackdown on undocumented and other Afghan nationals, increasing concerns among students and their families.

For those already several semesters into their programmes, deportation could mean losing years of academic work and disrupting plans for professional careers.

Calls To Protect Students

Student groups and advocates have urged Pakistani authorities to review the cases of Afghan students on an individual basis and ensure that those pursuing legitimate education are not forced to abandon their degrees.

The detention of the two International Islamic University students has intensified those demands, with calls for their release and permission to complete their courses.

Until the visa extension issue is resolved, Afghan students across Pakistan remain uncertain about whether they will be able to stay in the country long enough to finish their education and begin the careers they have spent years preparing for.