Turkish Parliamentary Official Urges Afghan Students to Return Home After Graduation

DID Press: Fuat Oktay, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Türkiye’s Grand National Assembly, has urged Afghan students studying in Türkiye to return to Afghanistan after graduation and use their knowledge and experience to contribute to the country’s development and reconstruction.

Oktay made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Afghan Students Council in Türkiye. He said Afghanistan had significant potential for progress, citing its rich natural resources, capable workforce and young population.

According to a statement from the Afghan Students Council, Oktay put the number of Afghan students enrolled at Turkish universities at around 10,000, describing their educational achievements as important for Afghanistan’s future. Turkish media reports cited a more precise figure of 9,670 Afghan students.

Drawing on his own experience of studying abroad, Oktay said he had consistently emphasized the importance of returning to Türkiye and serving his country. He said he had also encouraged others to return to their homelands and contribute to their development.

He urged Afghan students to take a responsible approach to their country’s future and put the knowledge and skills they acquire abroad to work for Afghanistan’s progress.