Why did the South Asian University suspend scholarships for Afghan students? Understand the full story.

The South Asian University (SAU) has temporarily suspended scholarships for Afghan students due to a funding dispute and the non-receipt of financial contributions from Afghanistan.

The South Asian University has halted the scholarships previously awarded to Afghan students. The university states that this decision was not made to target any single country; rather, it was taken to ensure the uniform application of rules following a dispute regarding funding among SAARC member nations.

According to the university, Afghanistan has failed to make its stipulated financial contributions for several years. Bhutan raised objections regarding this matter, arguing that countries paying their share on time should be treated equitably. Consequently, the university decided to suspend the scholarships for Afghan students.

SAU President Prof. K.K. Aggarwal stated that there has been no official communication from Afghanistan regarding this matter since the Taliban came to power. As the Indian government has not yet formally recognized the Taliban government, the university has also been unable to establish official dialogue on the issue. This is why the funding dispute remains unresolved.

This facility will be provided

However, the university clarified that the doors to education have not been completely closed for Afghan students. If the Afghan administration agrees, online learning facilities could be introduced, particularly for female students. The university reports receiving numerous emails from Afghan students—especially women—who wish to continue their education but are unable to do so due to restrictions on women's education and visa-related issues.

According to media reports, Prof. Aggarwal stated that a country's development is impossible as long as half its population remains deprived of education. He noted that the objective of SAARC is to foster regional cooperation and promote education; therefore, the university is prepared to work on the option of online education. When might the facility resume?

The university stated that if any SAARC member nation or other organization agrees to provide financial contributions on behalf of Afghanistan, the scholarship program for Afghan students could be reinstated. Additionally, an appeal has been made to the Ministry of Education to consider providing scholarships through the ICCR for Afghan students wishing to study at SAU.

University financial records indicate that India has been the largest contributor between 2021 and June 30, 2026, contributing approximately USD 65.9 million. It was followed by Bangladesh, the Maldives, Bhutan, and Nepal. Meanwhile, Pakistan made a payment only once in 2025, following a gap of several years. According to the university, there are currently no students from Pakistan enrolled at SAU.

Media reports state that 10 Afghan students were studying at the university during the 2024-25 session; however, despite receiving applications for the 2026 admission cycle, no Afghan students were able to enroll. Students from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have secured admission in the new batch, whereas no students from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bhutan, the Maldives, or countries outside SAARC have joined this time.