Amidst growing concerns, girls in Afghanistan, particularly those completing sixth grade, are raising their voices, appealing to the Taliban not to halt their education in the upcoming academic year. Zahra and Zainab, recent sixth-grade graduates, expressed their sadness on the last day of school, emphasizing the emotional toll of the uncertainty regarding their future education.
Over two years have passed since the Taliban’s closure of schools for girls above the sixth grade, with no official announcement regarding the reopening of higher grades. Zainab described the emotional farewell on their last day, with tears shed by students and teachers alike. The girls and their families stressed the significance of education and pleaded with the Taliban not to deny girls the right to attend school.
Palwasha, a women’s rights activist, highlighted the disparity, noting that in today’s global context, where technology is a focal point, Afghan girls above the sixth grade lack the right to education and humanities knowledge. The closure of schools has endured for more than 800 days, prompting calls from students for the reopening of universities and schools, emphasizing the fundamental right to education.
Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, Taliban-appointed Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged the closure of schools as a fundamental reason for global distancing from the Taliban. While the students’ pleas for International Student Day went unanswered, the Taliban spokesperson, Zabiullah Mujahid, asserted ongoing efforts to create facilities for effective teaching and educational improvements.
As the uncertainty looms, Afghan girls and students collectively urge the government and the international community to reopen universities and schools, emphasizing the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of the nation.
