Unable to get in touch with kin, Afghan students in Bathinda seek support

Sukhmeet Bhasin

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, August 22

Ten Afghan students at the Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, have spent every moment worrying about their kin back home for the past several days. They are anxious as they are unable to contact their families during this difficult time.

The fast-changing scenario back home has shattered their hopes as they stare at an uncertain fate for their families. A student, wishing anonymity, says, “I am afraid at the turn of events in Kabul. My family is there. I was planning to finish my course and return home, but who could have imagined that things would take a turn for the worse.”

To address concerns, Prof Raghavendra P Tiwari, Vice Chancellor, met with Afghan students enrolled in various programmes and assured them of providing necessary support and care. During the meeting, students from Afghanistan spoke about the current situation prevailing in their country. They shared their concerns regarding visa extension, ICCR scholarship, hostel accommodation and financial issues.

In the current academic year, total 16 Afghan students are studying in the university, six of whom went back home during the semester break but have so far been unable to return. In addition to this, 11 more students from Afghanistan have taken admission in the university in the 2021-22 session but they are stuck in Afghanistan and yet to reach India. Prof Vinod K Garg, Dean, Student Welfare, said the students that their problems had been listed by the university authorities and all possible help would be provided to them.

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.