Young Afghan woman wins UNHCR award

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): A 29-year-old Afghan doctor, serving local communities and refugees in Pakistan, has won this year’s Nansen Refugee Award.

The UNHCR award has been given to Dr Saleema Rehman in recognition of outstanding service and commitment to Pakistanis and Afghan refugees in the country.

UNHCR acknowledged her contributions as a refugee to Pakistan, particularly her unwavering dedication towards patients during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Saleema Rehman said investing in the education of a woman was an investment in a whole generation.

“Access to education is very important in our lives. Investing in the education of a woman is an investment in a whole next generation,” Dr Rehman said.

At a ceremony held in her honour in Islamabad on Wednesday, she received the award from Ambassador of Switzerland Benedict de Cerjat and Charge d’Affaires of Norway Elin Kylvåg.

The Swiss ambassador hailed the Afghan doctor as an inspirational young woman. “She is a bright example of how valuable it is for the international community to support countries hosting refugees with inclusive policies like Pakistan.”

The UNHCR representative in Pakistan and other dignitaries representing different countries and organisations attended the ceremony.

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