A second group of 64 Palestinian medical and dental students from Gaza arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday morning. A prominent non-governmental organization (NGO) confirmed this initiative. It aims to help students affected by the conflict in the Middle East.
This initiative began in July. Pakistan announced that over 100 Palestinian students would receive scholarships. Therefore, they can study at Pakistani medical institutions, thanks to the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).
Al-Khidmat Foundation
The programme, backed by Doctors of Rehman, Global Relief Trust, and Pakistan’s renowned NGO, Al-Khidmat Foundation, supports students whose education has been disrupted due to the ongoing war in the Middle East. These scholarships aim to provide them with a stable environment to complete their studies despite the devastation in their homeland.
The second batch of students departed from Cairo on Monday and arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday, following the earlier arrival of 27 students in Lahore. “Praise be to God, the second batch of 64 Palestinian students arrived at Islamabad airport this morning,” Al-Khidmat Foundation said in a statement. These students are in their fourth and fifth years of medical and dental studies.
Al-Khidmat Foundation Representatives
Al-Khidmat Foundation representatives welcomed the students at the airport. The representatives welcomed the student warmly. The organisation shared the photos of excited students. The foundation emphasised that this initiative aims to support Palestinian students. Moreover, it will help students continue their education amidst the ongoing conflict.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 42,000 people. The relentless attacks have devastated buildings, including key health and educational institutions. Al-Shifa, Gaza’s largest hospital, has been rendered non-functional, severely limiting access to healthcare for the region’s residents. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also raised alarms about rising health crises in Gaza, with increasing cases of meningitis, jaundice, and other infections.
This effort to provide educational opportunities for Palestinian students is seen as a beacon of hope amid the widespread destruction and loss in Gaza. As the conflict continues, initiatives like this allow students to pursue their dreams and contribute to the healthcare sector, not only in Pakistan but also for the future of Palestine.
Support for Palestinians
The arrival of these students marks a significant step in Pakistan’s continued support for Palestinians. It also reflects the commitment of organisations like Al-Khidmat Foundation, Doctors of Rehman, and Global Relief Trust, who have been instrumental in making this initiative possible. Their work highlights the importance of international solidarity and support in times of crisis, especially for vulnerable communities such as students affected by war.
As the students settle into their new academic environment, many hope to complete their education and use their skills to help rebuild their communities in the future. Their journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the collective efforts of nations and organisations working together to provide opportunities for those in need.
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