Returnees in Afghanistan Voice Alarm Over Girls’ Education Ban

Families returning from neighboring countries to Afghanistan are expressing concern over the closure of schools to girls, fearing for their futures.

Concerns of Returnees About Girls’ Schools Closure

Families returning recently from neighboring countries are deeply worried about the current state of education for girls. They express that this ban will have detrimental effects on their children’s future. One returnee spoke to media about her despair, emphasizing the necessity of educating girls.

She stated, “Today’s girls are the mothers of the country’s future, and their illiteracy will have dangerous consequences for families and society.” She also added that being deprived of schooling and university has stripped girls of their motivation and opportunities for advancement.

Impact of Educational Restrictions on Girls’ Aspirations

Medina Noorzi, one of the students who has been deprived of education, pointed out the negative effects these restrictions have on her goals and future. Asifa Stankzi, a women’s rights activist, also highlighted that keeping girls out of educational institutions not only results in losing one student but deprives society of future teachers, doctors, and other professionals.

Ban on Girls’ Education Since 2021 and Its Consequences

Following the return of the Islamic Emirate to power in August 2021, education for girls above sixth grade was officially prohibited. According to UNICEF statistics, approximately 2.6 million girls have been denied enrollment in secondary and high schools. Despite repeated requests from the international community to lift these restrictions, Kabul officials believe that women’s rights must be ensured within the framework of Islamic law and that the reopening of schools is contingent on “favorable conditions.”

Currently, millions of women and girls are striving to regain their basic rights to education and employment.