Statements

On 19 August, the University issued a statement regarding the distressing scenes unfolding in Afghanistan and called for the Government to expedite the safe passage of affected students to study in the UK.  

Since then, the University has continued to work with Universities UK to provide personalised support to Afghani students currently in the UK and Afghanistan, and Chevening Scholars due to travel to the UK to begin their studies at UEA in September. It is also ensuring that students who may have family and friends in Afghanistan are offered support from our Student Services teams. 

Professor Frances Bowen, Pro-Vice Chancellor, International at UEA, said: “We are doing everything in our power to assist our students and Chevening Scholars. We continue to work closely with Universities UK on the most appropriate course of action to access the government’s support. As a University of Sanctuary, we stand in solidarity with all who are affected by the crisis in Afghanistan. We call on the UK Government to ensure Afghani students already in the UK are able to continue their studies without visa restrictions and are permitted to remain in the UK at the end of their studies. This is in addition to providing safe, supported travel to the UK for Scholars, academics and their families.

“Schemes such as the Chevening Scholarship have enabled UEA to welcome some of the brightest minds to study from countries such as Afghanistan. We will continue to do everything we can to help reduce the barriers to participation in higher education and welcome the contributions of Chevening Scholars to our academic community.” 

UEA is in its fourth year of being recognised as a University of Sanctuary, an accreditation given to universities that show an ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming culture of inclusivity and awareness.  Read the Universities of Sanctuary’s ‘Solidarity and compassion for the people of Afghanistan’ statement here.