Afghan Educators Highlight Struggles on World Teacher’s Day Amid Economic Crisis

On World Teacher’s Day, Afghan educators are highlighting the economic struggles and educational challenges they face in the country. The ongoing economic crisis and delays in salary payments have severely impacted the quality of education.

Afghan Teachers Discuss Their Challenges on World Teacher’s Day

In commemoration of October 5th, World Teacher’s Day, reports reveal that Afghan teachers are grappling with significant issues due to economic hardships and poor educational conditions. Findings indicate that many teachers receive salaries ranging from 8,000 to 8,500 Afghanis, which are insufficient to cover basic living expenses.

Kheiruddin, a veteran teacher from Baghlan province, states that the lack of access to skill enhancement programs and specialized workshops is a serious challenge within the education system. He believes that conducting training sessions during the winter is essential for improving teaching quality.

Infrastructure Challenges and Teacher Shortages in Afghanistan

The educational infrastructure in remote areas is in dire condition. In Urozgan province, a shortage of teachers has resulted in classrooms with over 70 students per class. Additionally, the absence of shelter and poor conditions for learning pose significant challenges for schools in this region.

The ban on education for girls beyond the sixth grade has further complicated the situation for female teachers. Uranus, a primary school teacher in Kabul, reports delays in salary payments and expresses concerns about job security.

Worrying Statistics and Response from the Ministry of Education

International reports indicate that the shortage of qualified teachers, particularly women, has severely undermined education quality. According to UNICEF, the number of female teachers at the primary level is projected to drop from 73,000 in 2022 to 66,000 by 2024, and if conditions persist, Afghanistan could lose nearly 20,000 more female teachers by 2030.

Despite attempts to obtain insights from the Ministry of Education, a spokesperson has not responded to inquiries. This comes as the Ministry of Vice and Virtue recently issued a notice declaring the celebration of Teacher’s Day impermissible due to misalignment with Islamic practices.