Edinburgh University Recalls Students Studying In Egypt After Two Detained

All nine students studying abroad have returned to the UK.
Cairo, where the two students were studying at the time of their detainment.
Cairo, where the two students were studying at the time of their detainment.
Tamboly Photodesign / Aurora Photos via Getty Images

Edinburgh University has recalled all of its students studying abroad in Egypt after two were detained during their stay.

Nine students have returned from the north African nation amid fears for their welfare.

A spokesperson for the university said the pair, who were studying in the capital city of Cairo, were detained by authorities.

The pair have since been released but the university has now advised all of its students in the country to return home, citing concerns for their safety.

A spokesman for the university said the institution was “very concerned” when it heard about the students’ detainment.

They continued: “We have a responsibility to act in the best interests of our students and to take decisive action when there are concerns for their safety and wellbeing.

“We therefore required all nine of our students in Egypt to leave the country. All students have now left Egypt.”

The students were spread between the American University of Cairo and the city’s International Language Institute, undertaking Arabic degree programmes.

The spokesman added: “We are working closely with the students to minimise the impact of any disruption to their studies and to provide alternative placements.”

Following anti-government protests in Egypt last month, several foreign nationals have been detained, released and deported amid a crackdown by the authorities involving more than 2,900 arrests.

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