Late on Friday night, Kyrgyzstan, a country many Pakistanis might not know much about, became a trending topic on Pakistani social media. According to Pakistani authorities, thousands of Pakistani students are currently studying in Kyrgyzstan.
In the capital city of Bishkek, protestors armed with sticks and batons entered hostels housing Pakistani and other international students, causing damage and injuring at least 14 Pakistani students. In response, both Pakistani and Indian authorities advised their students to remain indoors.
Although Kyrgyzstan’s authorities have claimed that the situation is now under control, the process of repatriating Pakistani students has begun, with special measures being taken by Pakistan.
Earlier this year, during the Global Health Security Summit held in Islamabad, Kyrgyzstan’s Minister of Health, Alimkadyr Beishenaliev, mentioned that there are 12,000 Pakistani students studying in various universities across Kyrgyzstan.
Why Do So Many Pakistani Students Choose Kyrgyzstan for Medical Education?
Given the large number of Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan, it raises the question of why so many are choosing this Central Asian country for their medical studies. The answer is closely tied to the state of medical education in Pakistan.
Introduction to Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country surrounded by the Tian Shan and Pamir mountain ranges. It borders Kazakhstan to the north, Tajikistan to the south, China to the east, and Uzbekistan to the west. Kyrgyzstan became an independent nation in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Reasons for Pakistani Students Heading to Kyrgyzstan
The high cost of medical education and limited opportunities in Pakistan drive many students to seek education abroad. Medical education in Kyrgyzstan is not only more affordable but also easier to access. The universities here offer English-medium programs and their degrees are recognized by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), making them an attractive option for Pakistani students.
Current Situation and Measures
Following recent events, efforts are being made to ensure the safety of Pakistani students and facilitate their return home. Both Pakistani and Indian authorities have advised students to stay indoors. Kyrgyzstan’s authorities have assured that the situation is under control and that the safety of all international students will be prioritized.
Conclusion
Kyrgyzstan has become a significant destination for Pakistani students seeking medical education. However, the recent incidents have caused concern among the students and their families. Authorities from both countries are working to improve the situation quickly and ensure the safety and continued education of the students.
