afghan child migrants in Pakistan face a myriad of challenges, from security and economic concerns to language and cultural barriers, despite these hardships, they maintain a hopeful outlook for the future.
One of the biggest challenges facing Afghan child migrants is access to education.
In addition, many Afghan families view Pakistan as a temporary stopover on their way to Western countries. As a result, they may not see the value in enrolling their children in Pakistani schools, believing they will only be in the country for a short time.
I asked a 12-year-old Afghan boy named Hijran if he goes to school. He replied with a childish lack of enthusiasm, saying, “No.” He explained, “We have a Canadian case and we don’t know how long we’ll stay in Pakistan. That’s why my father doesn’t enroll me in school.”
Hijran’s father is not alone in his decision. Many Afghan families who have fled to Pakistan are reluctant to enroll their children in school, fearing that they will only be in the country for a short time and that the education will be wasted. This is especially true for families who are hoping to move to Canada or other Western countries.
The uncertainty of the future is a heavy burden for Afghan child migrants. They are not sure if they will ever be able to return to Afghanistan, or if they will be able to build a new life in another country. This uncertainty makes it difficult for them to focus on their studies, and it can lead to feelings of anxiety and despair.
The lack of education can have a devastating impact on Afghan child migrants. Without an education, they are less likely to find good jobs and support themselves and their families. They are also more likely to be exploited and abused.
Despite these challenges, many Afghan child migrants remain hopeful for the future. They dream of one day going to America or Europe, where they believe they will have a better life. They also dream of becoming doctors, engineers, and other professionals.
These dreams are what keep Afghan child migrants going, even in the face of adversity. They know that education is the key to their future, and they are determined to achieve their goals