Oct. 5, 2021

At a time when women’s education is being suspended in Afghanistan, we are happy to share the news that UNT will be helping five Afghan students continue their education by providing them with scholarships for our Intensive English Language Program, after which they will join our academic programs. The five women, who are expected to arrive on campus in the next few weeks, landed in the U.S. with just their phones and the clothes they were wearing.

Already the UNT community is pitching in, with those who speak Dari and Farsi ready to help the students in their early days with translating and navigating the campus and community. Others offering assistance include the Learning Center with school supplies from the School Supply Pantry; the University Libraries with long-term laptop checkout; and Dining Services with meal plans.

The Dean of Students office is working to coordinate home stays and arranging for donations of clothing and bedding from spiritual and community organizations. Student Financial Services is identifying grants and other forms of financial assistance. And UNT International and the Women’s and Gender Studies program will help welcome and support the students.

And here are a few other ways we can help:

  • Make a donation to the International Student Emergency Fund, which will be used to support the students’ expenses during their time at UNT. The hope is that enough funds will be raised to cover the full cost of their UNT degrees as well as necessities like books, housing and transportation.
  • Help with immediate needs, including everyday items such as feminine hygiene products and toiletries, or donate gift cards for Uber/Lyft, grocery stores or other goods and services. You can drop off items at the Dean of Students office (Union Suite 409) or at the Food Pantry Presented by Kroger during curbside pickup hours. Any extra items will be provided to other students in need.

Thank you to everyone for helping make the transition to the U.S. a little easier for these newest members of our community.