The first batch of 27 Palestinian students has arrived in Lahore from Cairo, marking a significant step in their journey to continue medical studies in Pakistan.
This initiative, announced by Pakistan’s foreign ministry in July, aims to support over 100 Palestinian students affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
According to a statement from the Pakistani embassy in Egypt, the students were facilitated in their departure by officials from the embassy and representatives of Al-Khidmat Foundation at Cairo International Airport.
This group is part of a larger cohort of 192 Palestinian medical students from Gaza who will pursue medical and dental studies across various medical institutes in Pakistan.
This effort reflects Pakistan’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for students impacted by conflict, helping them to build futures despite the challenges they face.
The embassy confirmed that the Palestinian students will be supported through fully funded programs in Pakistani medical universities. “The initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with Global Relief Trust, Doctors of Rahman, and Al-Khidmat Foundation,” the statement noted.
The decision to extend scholarships comes as international relief organizations report widespread damage to educational institutions and healthcare facilities in Gaza due to ongoing Israeli attacks.
Since October 7, 2023, over 42,000 people have been killed in Gaza amid relentless Israeli bombardments, despite numerous calls for a ceasefire and widespread protests across the globe.