On March 13, 2023, a meeting was held at BUITEMS training hall between Afghan refugee DAFI scholars, tertiary level students, representative from Inspire Pakistan and UNHCR. Mr. Hafeezullah, communication Assistant ICRMS, presented the agenda of the meeting, and the students were divided into three groups to discuss various questions related to their experiences in tertiary education.
Mr. Hashim Mandokhail, Program officer Inspire Pakistan, thanked ICRMS for arranging the interactive talk and provided information and guidance to the Afghan refugee students and DAFI scholars. He mentioned that Inspire Pakistan follows universal policies for DAFI scholarships and is in conversation with the government of Pakistan to extend support to MS and PhD level students. He encouraged students to focus on other academic fields, complete their documentation properly, and be self-initiative. He also suggested that DAFI scholars and other Afghan refugee students should be advocates for Inspire Pakistan in their communities and guide them to avoid future inconveniences.
Ms. Noreen, Education Associate UNHCR, emphasized the need for students to be focused, highlight success stories and best practices, and come up with ideas and suggestions to improve their lives and those of others. UNHCR is also in continuous communication with higher authorities to provide better opportunities to Afghan refugees. The session ended with the distribution of souvenirs and refreshments.