'Not dolls to play with': Afghan medical students face expulsion from Pakistan

Afghan students enrolled in medical programmes in Pakistan say they are at risk of expulsion in the middle of their studies, even though their admission and funding were arranged through legal channels. The account, reported by Al Jazeera, is based on statements from the students themselves.

According to the students, they were formally admitted to Pakistani universities and their education has been funded in line with official procedures. Being forced to return to Afghanistan partway through their medical degrees would mean losing the time and resources already invested in their studies.

'Not dolls to play with'

The phrase used in the article's headline reflects the students' frustration with how decisions affecting their education and future are being made. It suggests the students do not see themselves as objects to be managed at the discretion of authorities, without regard for their rights or the effort they have already put into their studies.

Uncertainty remains

Should the expulsions proceed, the affected students would lose the chance to complete their degrees at the institutions where they began their studies, along with the financial investment already made. The Al Jazeera report does not specify how many students could be affected or provide a timeline for when any expulsions might take place.

It also remains unclear whether Pakistani authorities have issued any official response to the students' concerns or explained the reasoning behind the potential expulsions. The situation leaves open questions about the future of both the individual students and the wider community of Afghan students studying in Pakistan.