By: Emmanuel M. Kangar, Jr.
As geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, members of the Liberian student community in India are voicing urgent concerns over their safety and lack of diplomatic support. Brian Wahid, a senior student of Information Technology at the Ludhiana College of Engineering and Technology, has issued a formal appeal to the Government of Liberia on behalf of the Liberian Student Association in India.
In a letter addressed to Liberian authorities, Wahid highlights the growing anxiety among Liberian students, citing the absence of a Liberian embassy in India as a critical gap in support. “We find ourselves increasingly anxious for our students, who are facing significant risks,” Wahid wrote. “With no official representation from our government, these students are left without guidance or recourse should they encounter difficulties or emergencies.”
India has heightened security across major cities amid the latest flare-up with Pakistan, creating a challenging environment for international students, especially those without direct diplomatic channels. Wahid emphasized the students’ sense of vulnerability and isolation, adding that proactive measures by the Liberian government are urgently needed.
The association is calling for the Liberian government to engage with international and local diplomatic channels, possibly facilitating temporary evacuation support or communication between students and their families back home. “Although we currently lack a formal embassy in India, we believe that proactive measures can be taken to support our students,” Wahid stated.
This plea comes at a time when reports of foreign nationals facing harassment during periods of unrest are on the rise. Foreign student associations across India have previously raised similar concerns during earlier political flare-ups in the region.
The Liberian Student Association’s letter underscores the importance of protecting Liberia’s youth abroad, particularly those pursuing higher education in volatile geopolitical contexts. “The integrity and safety of our future leaders should be a top priority,” Wahid concluded in his appeal.
As of news time, there has been no official response from the Government of Liberia. Students continue to monitor the situation closely, hoping for swift action to ensure their safety and well-being.
