SOCIETY — February 24, 2026
Afghan Woman Recounts Taking University Entrance Exam Amid Restrictions
A young Afghan woman shares her firsthand account of navigating Taliban-patrolled streets to take a university entrance exam on February 14, highlighting her determination amid restrictions on girls' education. She describes the journey, exam atmosphere, and personal reflections on sacrifices for learning.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Hasht-e Subh — 2 min read
On Saturday, February 14, a young Afghan woman described her experience traveling to take a university entrance exam despite warnings of increased Taliban presence in the streets.
She woke early, excited and determined, exchanging messages with a friend who also planned to attend despite fears. Her mother advised caution due to Valentine's Day crowds, urging her to travel by vehicle alone. Departing two hours early, she took a rickshaw to a public street, printed her answer sheets, bought exam supplies, and snacked before heading to the exam center by vehicle.
En route, she observed the city's atmosphere of restrictions, overhearing an elderly man in a minibus reminisce about military days. Reflecting on limitations faced by girls, she arrived at the school after seeking directions. She checked in, finding her name on the list, and entered a hallway filled with young women reviewing lessons.
The exam began at 11 a.m. and lasted until 2 p.m. She solved math problems, equating them symbolically to past sacrifices: walking to school in summer heat, saving transport money for internet, persisting through fatigue for education. She viewed the test as akin to a 12-year effort for university admission, filled with deep emotions and memories.
Focused on succeeding, she managed time imperfectly due to excitement. After eating lunch, they uploaded answer sheets as evening prayers sounded and darkness fell.
Read the original reporting at Hasht-e Subh →
Reliability assessment
Single firsthand personal account with concrete details including specific date (February 14), exam times (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), travel methods, and sequential events, presented as direct experience.
The source language mixes facts with framing or advocacy wording. 'era of restrictions and deprivation, but in the heart of all, standing and power'; 'simplest right called education for which I paid costs, sacrificed'; 'like a konkoor that requires 12 years of effort' - these phrases use emotional framing, metaphors, and advocacy language to evoke struggle and resilience.
Across the newsrooms
Filed by
Hasht-e Subh
Originating
Filed under
Society — girls education, Taliban restrictions, university exam, Afghan women
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