In response to recent violence against foreign students, the Kyrgyz Ministry of Education has announced that university exams will now be conducted online.
This decision follows a series of attacks on international students, including Pakistani students, in the capital city, Bishkek.
The ministry’s announcement allows students, except those in their final semester, to return to their home countries while still participating in their examinations remotely.
The exam schedule will be communicated through WhatsApp, ensuring students from the 1st to the 9th semesters can complete their assessments without being physically present.
This measure comes after a disturbing incident where local students attacked their foreign counterparts, resulting in injuries to 14 Pakistani students. The assaults have caused significant distress among the international student community, prompting immediate repatriation efforts.
A flight carrying 140 students from Bishkek has already reached Lahore, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Repatriation continues as safety concerns remain high among the students and their families.
‘No Pakistani citizens died in Bishkek mob violence’
Earlier today, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated that no Pakistani citizens died in the Bishkek mob violence.
Addressing a press conference alongside Amir Muqam and Atta Tarar in Lahore, Dar said: “Sixteen foreign students were injured, including four to five Pakistanis who are currently in hospitals.”
Dar criticized the “false propaganda” spread by a political party and mentioned that the Pakistani government had canceled their visit to Kyrgyzstan at the request of the Kyrgyz foreign minister.
He assured that the government will cover the expenses of Pakistani students wishing to return home. “Today, 540 students are being brought back on three flights. The situation is under control, and the Pakistani embassy has confirmed the peace,” Dar said.
Dar maintained: “Approximately 11,000 Pakistani students are studying in Bishkek, and those returning will be provided with full facilities.”
“The students wanting to leave Bishkek can register at the embassy. There is no alarming situation in Bishkek,” he said.
