On September 25th, 2023, the International Center for Refugees and Migration Studies hosted its pivotal Policy Dialogue titled “Ensuring Access and Quality Education for Refugees: Bridging the Gap between Policy and Practice.” Esteemed dignitaries, including Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Hafeez from BUITEMS University, VC Loralai University Dr. Ehsaullah, Pro-VC of Sardar Bahadur Khan University, and representatives from various universities in Balochistan, alongside key players and UNHCR representatives like Ms. Tammi Sharpe, Tesfaye Bekele Weldeyesus, Ms. Viviane Tableros Plata, Mr. Arkadiy Leybovskiy, Mr. Jalal Khan Kakar, Mr. Sami Hashmi, and Ms. Noreen Sahar, convened for a crucial discussion. This event was also graced by significant stakeholders from governmental bodies such as HEC, BEF, PITE, CAR, and representatives from civil society. The dialogue centered on the pressing matter of ensuring both quality and accessibility within the higher education sector of Balochistan, Pakistan.
Key Recommendations
- Implement initiatives for the current semester and expand crash courses to improve refugees’ retention rates.
- Engage the Ministry of SAFRON and Interior Ministry in upcoming dialogues to address refugee concerns.
- Offer short skill/capacity development courses tailored to Afghan refugees based on market needs.
- Streamline the process for issuing letters from IBCC for educational recognition.
- Establish a centralized portal to update and post available reserved seats and opportunities in higher education for refugees.
- Bridge the gap between regional and federal departments to enhance coordination and support for refugees.
- Provide extensive training for teachers in refugee camps to address educational challenges at primary and secondary levels.
- Ensure availability of digital and online educational opportunities, particularly for female refugees in rural areas.
- Organize collective wisdom talks at the federal level to harness a collaborative approach in addressing refugee issues.
- Conduct awareness campaigns among stakeholders and refugee communities to enhance understanding and support.
