RESCUE:19 students returned home amidst rebellion

Rwandan students who were pursuing their studies in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, during the famous Arab uprising, have been recalled to school.They were evacuated from Libyan at the height of the revolution that swept Muamar Gadhafi from power. The former Libyan leader was killed by forces loyal to the National Transitional Council days after they took Tripoli, ending the reign of one of Africa’s longest serving leaders. The students who spoke to The New Times hailed the government for having ensured their safety during the crisis. They are now requesting government to facilitate their return to school."Last month, our school informed us that due to our outstanding performance and conduct at the campus, we are the first group to be recalled. We highly appreciate the efforts of the government for ensuring our safety during the uprising,” said Abdul Gahakwa a second year student of economics.All the 19 students are studying at Tripoli Islamic University under a World Islamic Call Society scholarship."Our colleagues at school tell us that the situation is calm,” said Gakwaya.A third year theology student, Hadija Nyirasafari, said: "Like my colleagues, we thank the government but also request for support in form of air tickets to return to schoolThe students now have visas which will expire on April 15, meaning they will have to return to school before that time.Despite requests from the students, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it won’t take care of their travel expenses."They were not sent to Libya on government scholarship; we repatriated them as citizens who were in danger but we can’t pay for their expense back,” said Mary Baine, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.The students, however, still have hope that government may consider their request and avail them the air tickets.