Hundreds of Pakistani teachers staged a protest in Peshawar against their dismissal from schools serving Afghan refugee children, alleging they were laid off without prior notice or financial compensation.

According to reports, 291 teachers—including 100 men and 191 women—were dismissed on October 31 after working under the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for approximately 35 to 40 years.

The affected teachers belong to several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Swabi, Haripur, and Kohat.

The protest was led by Tufail Ahmed and Farhana Durrani, who said the teachers had dedicated decades to educating Afghan children but were sent home without gratuity, medical allowances, or other financial benefits.

The protesters said the sudden layoffs had created serious financial difficulties for hundreds of families. They demanded compensation and recognition of their long years of service.

They also appealed to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi to intervene and help secure financial relief.

The teachers say they will continue raising their concerns until their demands are addressed.