The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS) at BUITEMS proudly facilitated the commemoration of World Refugee Day 2025, organized by UNHCR Sub-Office Quetta under the global theme “Solidarity with Refugees.” Held at the Orange Hall, BUITEMS, the event brought together government officials, UN agencies, implementing partners, academic leaders, civil society representatives, and members of refugee and host communities. ICRMS was responsible for managing event coordination, guest reception, volunteer support, protocol, and technical arrangements. The day began with a warm registration and welcome of participants, including the Governor of Balochistan, Mr. Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, as Chief Guest. The energy of the gathering reflected the deep sense of shared purpose and support for forcibly displaced people. The event formally opened with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by opening remarks from the Masters of Ceremony, who introduced the theme and agenda. ICRMS had been actively engaged in the planning process to ensure seamless execution of the segments. The first video shown highlighted UNHCR’s livelihood interventions in Balochistan. It featured powerful stories of refugee youth and women participating in vocational training, running micro-enterprises, and receiving support through the National Incubation Centre (NIC) at BUITEMS. As a strategic partner in the NIC initiative, ICRMS has supported the inclusion of refugee entrepreneurs through business development support and innovation mentorship.
This was followed by a moving testimony from a refugee outreach volunteer who spoke with heartfelt emotion about the years of displacement and the kindness of the host community. He expressed deep gratitude to the people of Pakistan, especially in Balochistan, for standing with Afghan refugees, and called on the international community to maintain its support. He emphasized that many Afghan refugees still lack viable options for return, and access to education and livelihoods in Pakistan remains essential for their survival and dignity. The second video presented during the program showcased UNHCR’s education interventions across refugee villages and urban settings. Among the most prominently featured initiatives were the crash courses offered by ICRMS, which equip refugee youth with practical, digital, and vocational skills. These programs have become a critical bridge for students unable to pursue traditional higher education. Following the video, the Vice Chancellor of BUITEMS, Dr. Khalid Hafeez, addressed the audience and acknowledged the strong partnership between BUITEMS, UNHCR, and ICRMS. He noted, “Through initiatives like the Maker’s Lab and crash courses, we are providing tools for self-reliance, resilience, and opportunity. These platforms are preparing displaced youth for meaningful futures.”
A powerful theatrical performance titled “Until the Sun Rises Again” was staged by refugee youth in collaboration with UNHCR and supported by ICRMS. The play, based on real-life stories, portrayed the lived experiences of Afghan families facing challenges related to identity documents, fear of deportation, and their hope for safety and stability. Minimalist staging and raw, emotional performances made a lasting impression on the audience, which included humanitarian actors and policymakers. The performance received a standing ovation, with many describing it as the soul of the event. The health video segment followed, illustrating how UNHCR has strengthened healthcare services in Balochistan through equipment donations, maternal and child health services, and mobile medical units. These interventions have benefitted both refugees and host communities. In his keynote remarks, Mr. Tesfaye Bekele Weldeyesus, Head of UNHCR Sub-Office Quetta, stressed the importance of transforming solidarity into meaningful action. “No one chooses to be a refugee. Behind every number is a human life, and our commitment must be expressed through inclusive policies, health, education, and livelihoods,” he said, acknowledging ICRMS as a vital partner in refugee programming in the province.
The Governor of Balochistan, Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, also delivered a powerful address, speaking of the cultural values of Melmastia and Nanawatee, which have shaped Balochistan’s tradition of offering hospitality and protection. He stated, “Afghan refugees are not strangers. They are contributors to our society. We must continue to support them with dignity. Repatriation must be voluntary and based on peace and opportunity—not pressure.” He further urged the international community to invest not only in refugees but also in host communities that have carried this responsibility for decades. A special video presentation from the Commissionerate for Afghan Refugees (CAR) was also showcased, highlighting successful programs in education, health, and legal documentation. The Commissioner, Mr. Arbab Talib Ul Maula, closed the ceremony with a heartfelt story of a young Afghan girl who aspires to become a doctor. He emphasized that such dreams must not remain unfulfilled due to displacement and lack of opportunity. “Refugees are not a crisis—they are people of hope, ability, and vision,” he said, calling on donors and stakeholders to commit to long-term investment.
Commemorative shields were presented by UNHCR and CAR to key contributors, including the Vice Chancellor of BUITEMS, recognizing institutional leadership in refugee support. After the formal proceedings, guests visited the exhibition stalls showcasing refugee-made products. The Governor also toured the UNHCR-supported Maker’s and Usability Lab at BUITEMS, guided by ICRMS staff. He described the lab as “a beacon of innovation that bridges the digital divide for refugee youth.” This visit highlighted the ongoing efforts by ICRMS and BUITEMS to promote technology-driven, skills-based learning. The World Refugee Day 2025 event in Quetta successfully celebrated the courage and contributions of Afghan refugees while reinforcing the importance of inclusive development, mutual understanding, and shared responsibility. ICRMS is proud to have facilitated this significant occasion and reaffirms its commitment to supporting refugees through research, education, innovation, and advocacy in close collaboration with UNHCR and other partners.