Towards Excellence

(ISSN No. 0974-035X)
(An indexed refereed & peer-reviewed journal of higher education)
UGC-MALAVIYA MISSION TEACHER TRAINING CENTRE GUJARAT UNIVERSITY

THE IMPENDING CONSEQUENCES OF BANNING SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES FOR GIRLS IN AFGHANISTAN

Authors:

Ebrahimi Nasima Gul Ahmad, Manoj C. Shastri

Abstract:

Girls’ education is crucial for societal progress, impacting economic growth, health, gender equality, poverty reduction, social development, and environmental sustainability. Educated girls contribute to the economy, make informed health decisions, challenge gender stereotypes, and break poverty cycles. Despite global efforts to promote girls’ education, Afghanistan’s Taliban regime banned girls from attending schools and universities since 2021, jeopardizing the nation’s stability and sustainable development. This study evaluates the impacts of this ban, revealing significant disruptions in education, future opportunities, and socioeconomic development. It highlights the immediate effects on Afghan girls’ education, future prospects, and the broader social and cultural implications. The socioeconomic analysis shows increased poverty and persistent gender inequality due to restricted educational opportunities. Health outcomes are also compromised as educated girls are more likely to make better health decisions. Additionally, the ban exacerbates psychological issues among Afghan girls, causing anxiety, depression, and a loss of self-confidence. Socially, the prohibition reinforces traditional gender roles, reducing women's participation in political and community leadership. Recommendations include community-based education programs, advocacy, awareness campaigns, and policy reforms to mitigate the ban's negative effects. Ensuring equitable educational opportunities for Afghan girls is essential to protect their rights and enable them to contribute to the nation’s progress. Collaborative efforts from policymakers, educators, activists, and community leaders are imperative to address these challenges and promote a more inclusive and sustainable future for Afghanistan.

Keywords:

Girls’ education, Afghanistan, Taliban, school ban, economic growth, gender equality, poverty reduction, social development, policy reform.

Vol & Issue:

VOL.16, ISSUE No.2, June 2024