Ebrahimi Nasima Gul Ahmad, Manoj C. Shastri
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.
Girls’ education, Afghanistan,
Taliban, school ban, economic growth, gender equality, poverty reduction,
social development, policy reform.
VOL.16, ISSUE No.2, June 2024