On World Education Day, Roza Otunbayeva, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan and Head of UNAMA, reiterated her call for the Taliban to end their ban on education for Afghan girls.
Otunbayeva stated that the ban on education inflicts harm on the entire Afghan population.
In her statement, Otunbayeva highlighted that the demand for the reopening of schools for girls extends beyond Western nations, with significant voices from the Muslim world, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, echoing this call.
She underscored the Taliban's responsibility to safeguard and promote the rights of all individuals, irrespective of gender, asserting that their current policies only serve to further isolate Afghanistan. Otunbayeva stressed the critical role of education in fostering societal prosperity and peace, deeming it not just a moral obligation but also essential for future stability and growth.
Addressing Afghan girls and women, Otunbayeva assured them of the UN's support. Additionally, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees stated on X social media platform that they continue to support the education of both boys and girls in Afghanistan. Despite ongoing challenges, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees views education as a vital source of hope for the Afghan community.
The Taliban's prohibition on education for girls above sixth grade and university attendance for girls has now exceeded 850 days, marking a significant regression in the nation's educational and social development.
