Students should not become victims of regional tensions

September 10, 2026

The decision to continue processing valid visa-extension applications of Afghan students is a welcome and human-friendly step. The Foreign Office has made it clear that applications submitted by Afghan students are being examined under the existing rules and policies. This approach should be appreciated.

Students should remain above regional politics. They come to Pakistan to study, build their careers and prepare for their future. They should not be made to suffer because of political disagreements or difficult relations between governments.

This is particularly important for Afghan students who are already enrolled in Pakistani universities and medical and dental colleges. Some are reportedly close to completing their degrees. Forcing such students to leave before finishing their education could waste years of hard work and create serious problems for their professional careers.

Pakistan has the right to enforce its immigration laws. Foreign nationals must have valid passports and visas to remain legally in the country. At the same time, the government can show compassion and flexibility when dealing with students who are legally enrolled in recognised educational institutions and whose visa-extension applications are under consideration.

The concerns raised by human rights organisations and opposition politicians also deserve attention. Each student’s case should be examined fairly, particularly where deportation could interrupt an education that is close to completion. The safety and future of students should remain important considerations.

Pakistan has historically hosted Afghan students and communities during difficult periods. A humanitarian approach towards students can help preserve people-to-people ties between the two countries.

Afghan students are not responsible for tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. They are young people trying to build a better future. Their education should not become a casualty of regional politics.

At the same time, the Afghan authorities must understand that Pakistan wants peace and prosperity for the people of Afghanistan. A stable and prosperous Afghanistan is in the interest of both countries. Pakistan has repeatedly faced the consequences of instability and terrorism emanating from Afghan territory.

The Afghan authorities should therefore take effective action against terrorist groups operating inside Afghanistan and prevent Afghan soil from being used for attacks against Pakistan. Security concerns must be addressed, but they should not be allowed to destroy humanitarian ties.

The message should be clear: students are not political targets.