UNAMA Marks Four Years of Girls’ Education Ban on International Day of Women and Girls in Science

February 11 marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, observed worldwide. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) stated that girls above the age of 12 in Afghanistan have been barred from attending school for 1,607 days, or more than four years, describing it as lost opportunities and a bleak future without women and girls in critical sectors.

UNAMA reiterated its call on the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to reverse the ban, saying: “In Afghanistan, we mark World in Science Day with sorrow: 1,607 days since girls over 12 were banned from school. Over four years of lost opportunity and a bleak future without women and girls in any critical sector. We reiterate our call on the DFA to reverse the ban.”

Students Marwa and Sara, who once prepared together for university entrance exams, expressed despair over their uncertain futures. Marwa said her dream of becoming a doctor seems impossible, noting that three of her sisters have also been deprived of education. Sara urged the Islamic Emirate to allow girls to study so they can contribute to the country’s progress alongside their brothers.

Nargis, who was in tenth grade when schools closed, requested the Islamic Emirate to reopen schools for girls.

The European Union emphasized the vital role of women—from nurses and midwives to researchers—for a healthy and prosperous Afghanistan, stating it will continue supporting education for all with partners: “From nurses and midwives to researchers, their active role is vital for a healthy and flourishing Afghanistan. Women must be at the heart of science. We will continue to support education for all together with our partners.”

The Islamic Emirate has not recently commented. Previously, on the 13th of Saratan 1404 (solar calendar), spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told TOLOnews that work is ongoing on girls’ education to provide an appropriate religious framework.