The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS) organized the Crash Course Graduation Ceremony 2025 on 11th July 2025 at the Orange Hall, SS Block, BUITEMS, celebrating the achievements of Afghan refugee students who successfully completed the intensive academic and skills based program. The event marked a significant milestone in ICRMS’s ongoing commitment to empowering refugee youth through education, training, and self-development. The ceremony commenced with the Recitation of the Holy Quran, setting a respectful and spiritual tone for the day. Following the recitation, the formal proceedings of the event began.
The event was professionally moderated by Mr. Muhammad Kazim, Liaison Officer at ICRMS. It continued with Opening Remarks by Prof. Dr. Zahid Rauf, Director ICRMS, who addressed the graduating students with words of encouragement and hope, underlining the transformative power of education in the lives of displaced communities. Prof. Dr. Zahid Rauf also presented a detailed overview of the Crash Course. its objectives, structure, and measurable impact highlighting the program’s role in bridging educational gaps and fostering self reliance among refugee youth. The Crash Course 2025 was carefully designed to provide foundational academic knowledge, enhance technical and soft skills, and improve access to higher education and employment opportunities. The selection process was rigorous, based on valid documentation (PoR cards, Sahadat Nama, Equivalence Certificates), interviews, and orientation sessions. The curriculum covered subjects like English, Mathematics, and Computer Skills, along with skills development workshops tailored to current market demands. Students demonstrated remarkable academic improvement, with a 72.9% average increase in performance based on pre- and post-course evaluations.
During the ceremony, a Crash Course Introductory Video was screened, showcasing the learning journey, classroom experiences, and extracurricular engagements of the students. Heartfelt speeches were delivered by students from both Section A and Section B, reflecting on their personal transformation and academic growth. Live feedback from selected students praised the dedication of instructors, the supportive learning environment, including sports activities and soft skills workshops. Mr. Amir Hossien Kowsar, Protection Officer at UNHCR, delivered motivational remarks, appreciating the initiative and encouraging students to continue their educational journeys and become future leaders in their communities.
Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez, Vice Chancellor of BUITEMS, gave the Closing Remarks. He commended ICRMS for its tireless efforts and recognized the resilience of refugee youth as a beacon of hope for the region. He also suggested that refugee students be encouraged to explore a wider range of academic disciplines for their future studies. In addition to technical and language subjects, he recommended fields such as history and social sciences, to promote broader educational development and societal understanding. As a token of gratitude, Prof. Dr. Zahid Rauf presented a shield to Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez, Vice Chancellor of BUITEMS, in appreciation of his support and presence at the event. In addition, Prof. Dr. Zahid Rauf also presented a shield to Mr. Amir Hossien Kowsar on behalf of UNHCR, acknowledging the organization’s continued partnership and support.
The event concluded with a group photo session, capturing joyful moments and celebrating the spirit of achievement, unity, and hope among students, faculty, and partners. A total of 90 participants attended the event, including 39 female and 51 male attendees, representing students, faculty, and institutional representatives.
Reported by Muhammad Asif
Reporting Associate
