Pakistan Islamic Medical Association (PIMA) has expressed serious concern over directives requiring Afghan medical students enrolled in public and private medical universities in Pakistan to leave the country, and has called for a review of the decision on humanitarian and educational grounds.
In a statement on Thursday, PIMA Acting President Prof. Muhammad Tayyab said that Afghan students whose medical education and training are currently in progress, and whose educational and legal documentation is complete, should be given the opportunity to complete their studies. Abruptly interrupting their education would place their academic and professional futures in uncertainty.
PIMA noted that Afghanistan is already facing a severe shortage of doctors and healthcare professionals. Afghan students who complete their medical education in Pakistan can return to their country in the future and play an important role in meeting the healthcare needs of its people.
PIMA stressed that political disputes and prevailing circumstances should not be allowed to affect healthcare, treatment, education or the future of students. Students should be given the opportunity to complete their professional education and build their future.
PIMA urged the government to review the decision in light of humanitarian considerations, continuity of education and the healthcare needs of the region, and allow Afghan medical students currently enrolled in Pakistani institutions to complete their education. ends
