Zambia delegation visits Gujarat varsity

A high-level delegation from Zambia visited Gujarat University in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, following a violent attack on foreign students over the weekend, which has sparked outrage and international concern, with representatives from various countries seeking intervention from the UN.

The attack, which occurred late on the night of March 16, targeted students from Afghanistan and other countries who were residing in the university hostel.

Several individuals, reportedly wearing saffron robes, stormed the hostel premises objecting to the students offering namaz on the hostel campus. The altercation quickly turned violent, with the students being physically assaulted, rooms vandalized, and stones thrown by the mob. Videos of the incident have surfaced online, further fuelling anger and disappointment.

Gujarat University ViceChancellor Neerja Gupta met with the delegation from the Zambian High Commission. This team, comprising the Deputy Chief of Mission,

First Secretary, and a student representative, visited the affected students in the hostel to assess their well-being.

Gupta assured the Zambian delegation of the students’ safety. "We are satisfied with your action," the delegation reportedly said, acknowledging the university's efforts in ensuring their safety.

Afghanistan Consul General Zakia Wardak is expected to visit Gujarat University on March 22 to address the concerns of Afghan students directly, according to officials. This follows reports that representatives from all affected countries held a virtual meeting with the UN on Sunday to report the incident and potentially seek intervention.

The attack has cast a shadow on the university's reputation for inclusivity and international student support. With over 70 students from various countries residing in the hostel, including 26 from Zambia alone, concerns about the safety and security of foreign students have become paramount. This incident has garnered serious attention from their home countries, prompting delegations and potentially UN involvement.