Pakistani medical students studying in Afghanistan are facing serious difficulties returning home due to the continued closure of the Pak-Afghan border, prompting calls for urgent intervention by the federal government.
Speaking to Geo News, Shahabuddin, President of the Pakistan Students Union in Afghanistan, urged the Pakistani authorities to take immediate steps to facilitate the safe return of students.
He said that thousands of Pakistani students, particularly from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are currently enrolled in medical colleges across Afghanistan.
According to Shahabuddin, the prolonged border closure has left students stranded, unable to travel back to Pakistan despite the completion of their academic commitments.
“Medical examinations in Afghanistan have concluded, and winter vacations of three months have officially begun,” he said, adding that students are eager to return home but remain stuck due to travel restrictions.
He highlighted that many students are facing financial, accommodation, and security-related challenges as they wait for the border to reopen. With hostels closing for winter and limited resources available, the situation has become increasingly stressful for students and their families.
The student leader emphasized that medical education is a long and demanding process, and unnecessary delays in returning home could negatively affect students’ mental wellbeing.
He also warned that prolonged stays during the harsh winter season could create additional health and safety concerns.
Shahabuddin appealed to the federal government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and relevant border authorities to coordinate with Afghan officials to allow Pakistani students safe passage across the border.
He suggested that special arrangements or temporary travel permits could help ease the crisis.
