The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS), in collaboration with UNHCR, organized the first Provincial Task Force Meeting on Refugee Higher Education on May 2, 2025, at the Video Conference Room, BUITEMS.
The meeting was chaired by Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez, Vice Chancellor BUITEMS, who emphasized the university’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and educational equity.
The Task Force, established in 2023 following the 2022 policy dialogues, aims to address the major challenges faced by Afghan refugee students, including documentation issues, rigid eligibility criteria, inconsistent academic standards, and financial and social constraints.
The meeting brought together representatives from BUITEMS, University of Balochistan (UoB), Alhamd University, HEC, UNHCR, UNDP, Inspire Pakistan, Balochistan Education Foundation (BEF), and other humanitarian organizations. Refugee students from BUITEMS and UoB also participated, sharing their concerns regarding academic continuity and long-term stability.
The session was inaugurated by Dr. Zahid Rauf, Director ICRMS, and moderated by Mr. Kazim, Liaison Officer ICRMS. Ms. Nafisa Nasar, Program and Research Associate, presented an overview of the Task Force’s progress and milestones. University representatives highlighted efforts such as revised admission procedures and updates on reserved seat allocations.
Key issues discussed included the urgent need for a safeguarding policy amid potential forced repatriation scenarios, and the critical importance of ensuring continuity in education for displaced students.
Key Recommendations:
• Introduction of a Zero Semester to bridge academic and language gaps.
• Revision of admission forms to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.
• Formulation of a safeguarding policy to protect refugee students until the completion of their studies.
• Issuance of academic credentials (certificates, diplomas, or associate degrees) in case of abrupt disruptions.
• Targeted strategies to address 2025 enrolment challenges.
• Regular updates on reserved seat allocations across departments.
The meeting concluded with a strong resolve to strengthen coordination among academic institutions, government stakeholders, and humanitarian organizations to promote access to higher education for refugee students in Balochistan.