A group of Afghan women awarded scholarships to study at the University of Dundee have graduated this week. Civil turmoil in Afghanistan in 2021 suddenly and severely limited access to education and development for women. This led the University to establish the Afghan Women Scholarship in 2023, the only scholarship of its type in the UK, open only to female applicants with Afghan nationality.
This week, 13 students who make up the first cohort of scholars have officially graduated from the University after crossing the Caird Hall stage at 2024 Winter Graduation ceremonies.
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Among the first cohort to receive their degrees were Shabnam Hassan Khan and Madison Safdari.
Shabnam was evacuated from Afghanistan in 2021, following the Taliban takeover. After making the difficult move to leave the country she loved and called home, her search for a new place to settle was driven by determination to discover opportunities to continue her education.
She was awarded the scholarship to study Accounting and Finance at the University’s School of Business. She explained how the opportunity has changed her life.
“I applied for the Afghan Women’s Scholarship because education has always been my greatest aspiration and a powerful tool for change,” she said. “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.”
Shabnam, who is the first woman in her family to travel abroad and obtain a Masters degree, officially graduated from the University of Dundee on Thursday 21 November 2024, joining hundreds of her peers to cross the Caird Hall stage. She explained how her Dundee education has given her the tools to build a career that not only supports her future, but also amplifies the voices of others. She said, “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 Safdari’s journey to Dundee was slightly different to Shabnam’s – she was born into refugee life. Before her birth, her parents, like many others, fled to Iran from Afghanistan in search of safety as the Soviet invasion of their home country raged on.
Despite the many challenges of living as a displaced person, including limited rights and opportunities, Madison pursued her undergraduate degree in Iran. However, this meant giving up her refugee status in the country, as refugees are not permitted to attend university in Iran unless they change their status and apply for a visa, which must be renewed annually. She explained how the Dundee scholarship offered a transformative step.
“I remember thinking, ‘this is a chance for a huge change in my life’”, Madison said. “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 not only further my own education but also to amplify the voices of women like me in professional fields where we are often underrepresented.”
Madison also graduated from the University of Dundee on Thursday 21 November, with a postgraduate degree in Spatial Planning with Sustainable Urban Design. She said her degree from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design will be invaluable for both her professional and personal endeavours.
“Graduation feels like a bittersweet milestone,” said Madison. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished but 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. “I am also determined to continue advocating for Afghan women – the scholarship, symbolising hope and empowerment, reminds me that I have a responsibility to represent Afghan women and inspire 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.” Professor Kim Dale, Assistant Vice Principal International at the University, added, “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.”
