STUDENTS who left Afghanistan following the civil turmoil in 2021 have officially graduated from the University of Dundee.
After the turmoil began, the university established the Afghan Women Scholarship in 2023.
This scholarship was open only to female applicants of Afghan nationality, given that women’s access to education and development had become extremely limited.
Shabnam Hassan Khan and Madison Safdari were two of the 13 graduates who received their degrees.
Shabnam was evacuated from Afghanistan in 2021 after the Taliban took control of the country.
Shabnam said on getting accepted into the scholarship: “I applied for the Afghan Women’s Scholarship because education has always been my greatest aspiration and a powerful tool for change.
“When I found out I was awarded it, I was overwhelmed with emotion—grateful and excited.
“It felt like a door had opened in a world where so many others had closed, especially for Afghan women.
“At that moment, I realised this wasn’t just about me; it was a victory for every Afghan girl who dreams of education but is denied it.
“This scholarship was more than an opportunity – it was hope, a lifeline, and a chance to prove that no matter how dark the situation, education can still light the way forward.
“It was proof that our voices for justice and advocacy for Afghan women and their rights were being heard, at least by some people.”
After being awarded the scholarship, Shabnam studied accounting and finance at the university’s business school.
She graduated with a master’s degree on Thursday, 21 November.
She said on her education: “With this qualification, I can pursue opportunities that were once out of reach, enabling me to contribute to causes close to my heart, such as securing my dream job and advocating for women’s rights and education.
“My next step is to use what I’ve learned to make a difference, whether it’s through advocacy, community work, or professional opportunities.
“I’m committed to amplifying the voices of Afghan women and contributing to a future where they can reclaim their rights and dreams.”
Madison was born into refugee life – before her birth, her parents fled to Iran from Afghanistan at the time the Soviet invasion took place.
She gained her undergraduate degree in Iran before going to Dundee to complete her postgraduate studies.
“I remember thinking, ‘This is a chance for a huge change in my life.’
“The Afghan Women’s Scholarship represented more than just financial support for me; it was a chance to break barriers and further my education in a globally recognised environment.
“Having witnessed the inequalities Afghan women face, I applied for this scholarship to further my education and amplify the voices of women like me in professional fields where we are often underrepresented.
“Graduation feels like a bittersweet milestone. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, but I’m also eager to step into the next chapter of my journey.
“My goal is to secure a role in urban planning, ideally within a company or organisation committed to sustainable development.
“The scholarship, symbolising hope and empowerment, reminds me that I am responsible for representing Afghan women and inspiring others to dream big and pursue their goals despite the obstacles they may face.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the University of Dundee for believing in me and providing me with this incredible opportunity.”
Madison graduated from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design with a master’s in social planning and sustainable urban design.
Professor Kim Dale, assistant vice principal, spoke on the scholarship: “As a university of sanctuary, we are committed to developing support for those displaced by humanitarian crises.
“Watching our Afghan Scholars cross the stage at graduation was a great reminder of the vital role universities can play in providing a place of safety, solidarity and empowerment.
“Our first cohort are shining examples of resilience, and we are extremely proud to see them go forth onto their next journey as ambassadors and members of the University of Dundee family.”
