A group of 19 female medical students from Afghanistan is beginning anew in Scotland after facing the harsh realities of educational prohibitions enforced by the Taliban. These determined young women arrived safely at Edinburgh Airport, where they were officially welcomed, allowing them to continue their studies and dreams of becoming doctors.
Their arrival marks the culmination of extensive efforts spearheaded by the Linda Norgrove Foundation, established to honor the Scottish aid worker who was killed in Afghanistan back in 2010. This foundation collaborated closely with both the UK and Scottish governments to secure visas and education placements for the students.
Before their departure, the students underwent rigorous screening processes, which included TB and English proficiency tests, alongside completing university interviews remotely. The first leg of their remarkable training began when they traveled to Pakistan to receive their student visas before making their way to the UK.
Among the group is 21-year-old Omulbanin Sultani, who had long aspired to become a doctor. Reflecting on her ordeal, she expressed, "We endured one thousand days of suffering to reach this point — confined to our homes with our voices silenced and dreams dismissed as we lived through tears and sorrow."
Upon arriving, many of the women were emotional, greeting supporters such as John and Lorna Norgrove, who have been pivotal to their relocation. "We cried at the airport; it was truly overwhelming," Omulbanin shared, explaining how the foundation not only financed their travel but also provided emotional support throughout their struggles.
Another student, 19-year-old Zahra Hussaini, echoed similar sentiments about the dramatic changes Afghanistan has undergone. She said the women were on the brink of completing their medical studies until the Taliban’s abrupt decision to bar girls from universities shattered their aspirations.
"We were supposed to finish our second semester, but everything changed with the Taliban’s announcement," Zahra lamented, recalling the oppressive life they led thereafter. Notably, she described feeling like being female had become synonymous with oppression, adding, "I didn't want to be a girl because of the restrictions placed on us. My family, though, provided me with the strength to overcome this challenge."
The Norgrove Foundation has raised over £60,000 to support this initiative, highlighting the significant efforts made to ease the transition for these students. This financial backing has ensured the students can study as home students, meaning they will not have to pay the expensive international rates typically applied to students from abroad.
Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth emphasized the Scottish government's commitment to these women, stating, "Gender should not be a barrier to accessing education, and I am proud we can support these extraordinarily talented women. Their resolve and desire to continue their studies are nothing short of inspirational."
