PESHAWAR: A group of Afghan students studying in various universities and colleges in Pakistan has demanded of the government to grant them an extension of the deadline to complete their studies before they leave the country.

The students, who were speaking at a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club on Tuesday, expressed their concerns about the recent decision by the Pakistani government to ask all Afghan nationals to leave the country by August 30.

The students led by Naqeebullah Ayubi, Asadullah Safi, female journalist Muskan Safi, Inayatillah Mohmand and Irshad Sherazi demanded that the federal government should grant them a 4-5 year extension to complete their education, allowing them to finish their studies without interruption. They also sought safe and secure environment to complete their studies.

In addition, the students urged the Afghan and Pakistani governments to engage in dialogue to resolve the issue of Afghan refugees and students in Pakistan.

“We are not asking for permanent residency, but we need time to complete our education. Forcing us to leave now would be unfair and would ruin our future prospects,” they said.

Afghanistan, they said, was not in a position to welcome back its citizens with open arms. The country is facing severe economic and humanitarian challenges, and we need more time to prepare for our return.”

The students highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and healthcare.

They also pointed out that Afghanistan lacked the infrastructure to accommodate the returning refugees and provide them with basic necessities of life.

Similarly, the students appealed that the UNHCR to provide more support to Afghan refugees and students in Pakistan, including financial assistance and protection.

They also urged the Pakistani government to provide support to Afghan students and refugees, allowing them to complete their education and providing them with a safe and secure environment for the purpose.

Published in Dawn, August 20th, 2025