Over 80 Afghan Female Students in Oman Face Deportation Following U.S. Aid Suspension
More than 80 Afghan female students in Oman are facing imminent deportation after their U.S. funded scholarships were abruptly terminated due to a recent freeze on foreign aid by the U.S. government. These female students now face the prospect of returning to an environment where women’s rights and educational opportunities are severely restricted.
The affected students were beneficiaries of the Women’s Scholarship Endowment (WSE) program, financed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Their scholarships were unexpectedly canceled following a directive by President Donald Trump to halt foreign aid expenditures, part of broader government spending reductions. This decision has left the students in a vulnerable position, with deportation looming.
One student, speaking anonymously due to safety concerns, described the situation as “heartbreaking,” noting that everyone was “shocked and crying” upon receiving the news. The students have reportedly been informed that they will be sent back to Afghanistan within two weeks.
Since regaining power in 2021, the Taliban has imposed stringent restrictions on women’s rights, including bans on university education and most forms of employment. The prospect of returning to such conditions has left these students fearing for their futures. They have appealed to the international community for intervention, seeking protection and opportunities to continue their education in a safe environment.
The sudden termination of their scholarships has not only disrupted their educational pursuits but also placed them at significant personal risk. Many of these women had previously fled to Pakistan before securing visas to Oman with USAID’s assistance. Their journey reflects a persistent struggle for education and autonomy, now jeopardized by the cessation of financial support.
The international community faces increasing pressure to address this crisis, as the potential deportation of these students underscores the broader implications of foreign aid policies on vulnerable populations. Advocacy groups emphasize the urgent need for solutions that uphold the rights and safety of Afghan women striving for education and self-determination.
