Afghan Universities Reopen, But Women Still Barred

Male students trickled back to their classes Monday after Afghan universities reopened after a winter break, however, women remain barred by Taliban authorities.

The university ban is part of several restrictions imposed on women since the Taliban stormed back to power in August 2021, and has sparked global outrage; including across the Muslim world.

“It’s heartbreaking to see boys going to the university while we have to stay at home,” said Rahela, one of the students from the central province of Ghor.

“This is gender discrimination against girls because Islam allows us to pursue higher education. Nobody should stop us from learning.”

The Taliban government imposed the ban after accusing female students of ignoring a strict dress code and a requirement to be accompanied by a male relative to and from campus.

Most universities had already introduced gender-segregated entrances and classrooms, as well as allowing women to be taught only by female professors or old men.

Several Taliban officials say the ban on women’s education is temporary, but despite promises, they have failed to reopen secondary schools for girls, which have been shuttered now for over a year.