UNICEF Urges Reopening of Girls' Schools in Afghanistan

UNICEF on Thursday urged Afghanistan to reopen schools for girls, stating that prolonged education restrictions are harming their future, dignity and the country's development.

UNICEF's regional director for South Asia, Sanjay Wijesekera, wrote on X that "it is time for school doors to reopen because hope, dignity and the future begin with education." He said girls in Afghanistan have waited far too long and that the return of school should bring hope to everyone.

UNICEF has repeatedly stressed that education is a basic right and a foundation for children's future and society's long-term development. International organizations have warned that prolonged exclusion from education could have lasting effects on girls' health, safety and future employment opportunities.

The appeal comes amid Afghanistan's deep humanitarian crisis, with millions dependent on aid, rising poverty and widespread uncertainty over the country's future.

Since the Taliban returned to power, girls have been barred from secondary schools and universities, leaving a generation of young women cut off from formal education. The restrictions have extended beyond classrooms, with many women facing limits on employment in public institutions, NGOs and other sectors, worsening household hardship.

Aid groups say the combined impact of school, university and job restrictions has harmed women's rights and weakened Afghanistan's social and economic recovery.

UNICEF's call adds to growing international pressure on the Taliban, though many Afghan girls continue to wait for education and opportunity with no clear end in sight.