In a significant effort to bolster higher education in Afghanistan, India has announced 1,000 e-scholarships for Afghan nationals for the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative, part of the Special Scholarship Scheme for Afghan Nationals (SSSAN), is managed by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). It allows Afghan students to pursue online undergraduate and postgraduate courses through the e-VidyaBharati (e-VB) i-learn portal.
This move continues India’s commitment to Afghan students, following scholarships granted in previous years. The World Bank highlights that Afghanistan has one of the youngest populations globally, with two-thirds of its citizens under 25. Empowering these young people is crucial for the country’s development, and education is key to their potential for peace and prosperity.
Under this scheme, Afghan individuals aged 18 to 35 can explore a variety of online programs from nine Indian universities, including notable institutions like Jamia Millia Islamia and the Indira Gandhi National Open University. Available fields include Business Administration, Computer Science, Arts, and more, providing relevant skills that can benefit them without leaving their homeland.
The government specifies that applicants must have a valid National ID or passport of Afghanistan, and the application window runs from September 1 to September 6, 2025. The scholarships cover tuition fees directly paid to the universities; however, they do not include any stipends.
India has been a long-standing educational partner for Afghanistan. The ICCR emphasizes that this flexible learning option allows Afghan students to access education anytime and anywhere via the internet on various devices.
Graduates will receive degrees recognized by India’s University Grants Commission (UGC), and physical certificates will be distributed through the Indian Mission in Kabul. The selection process includes screening by the universities, verification by the Indian Mission, and final approval from relevant authorities.
This initiative not only supports education but also strengthens cultural ties between India and Afghanistan. With technology-driven learning, students can better prepare for a modern workforce.
As education continues to evolve, experts suggest that online learning is likely to be a permanent fixture in the academic landscape. A recent study from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reveals that digital education can significantly reduce dropout rates and improve overall learning outcomes.
This scholarship program reflects India’s dedication to fostering a brighter future for Afghan youth through education, technology, and cultural exchange.
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