Afghan Female Students Face Career Setbacks as Pakistan Intensifies Deportation Drive

Pakistan Deportation Drive: Afghan Students Fear Losing Degrees, Careers Amid Visa Crisis

Afghan students in Pakistan are increasingly worried about their education and future careers as visa extensions remain suspended, leaving many vulnerable to detention and deportation. The issue has come into sharper focus after two Afghan women studying at the International Islamic University Islamabad were reportedly detained in Wah Cantt and taken to the Attock Detention Centre.

Surooda Rahim and Hasina Rahim were pursuing their seventh and sixth semesters respectively when they were detained. Their cases have prompted calls for Pakistani authorities to stop their deportation and allow them to complete their degrees.

Visa Extensions Remain Suspended

The visa extension process for Afghan students has reportedly been stalled for around 18 months. The prolonged uncertainty has affected students enrolled at universities across Pakistan, many of whom fear that expired visas could lead to detention or deportation.

For students already several semesters into their programmes, being forced to leave Pakistan could mean losing years of academic progress and putting their professional plans on hold.

Students Caught In Wider Afghan Crackdown

The situation comes amid Pakistan’s broader deportation drive targeting Afghan nationals. Afghan students have also been caught up in the uncertainty, despite being enrolled in recognised educational institutions.

Student groups and advocates are urging authorities to review the cases of Afghan students and ensure that those pursuing legitimate studies are allowed to remain until they complete their courses.

The detention of Surooda and Hasina has intensified concerns among Afghan students, many of whom now face an uncertain future as they wait for clarity on their visas and whether they will be able to finish their education in Pakistan.