Sudanese scientists who have been promised research posts at leading UK universities have spoken of their “shock” and “sadness” that their hopes have been dashed after Shabana Mahmood’s decision to end study visas for people from their country. Home Office sources said visa applications received from students in the four countries would be processed as usual until 26 March. Students from Sudan have launched a campaign to lobby the UK government to abandon its plans. Sudan, Cameroon and Myanmar are all in the midst of armed conflicts, while Afghanistan has faced a worsening humanitarian crisis since the Taliban takeover in August 2021. A spokesperson for Oxford University said the ban was a matter of “serious concern” for many students.

Source: The Guardian March 10, 2026 09:30 UTC