Kabul Schoolgirls Protest University Exam Exclusion

In Kabul, a group of school-aged girls recently protested against being excluded from the second round of university entrance exams. These girls, who have been unable to participate in the exams for two years in a row, expressed their frustration at the wasted efforts they had put into their studies. They called on the interim government to uphold their fundamental rights.

Nazanin, one of the students, shared her disappointment, echoing the sentiments of many girls her age who had dedicated countless hours to studying in the hopes of taking part in the exam. Other girls voiced concerns about their uncertain future and emphasized the importance of girls being allowed to participate in the exams, as well as the reopening of schools and universities.

Hajar, another student, urged the authorities to lift restrictions on girls' access to education. Women's rights activists also criticized the ban on girls attending educational institutions, highlighting the challenges it poses in their lives. Humaira Rasa Siddiqui, an activist, emphasized the psychological impact on girls, who make up half of Afghanistan's population, due to their exclusion from educational opportunities.

Professor Tafsir Siahposh warned that without the reopening of schools and universities, women would face a bleak future, and Afghanistan as a whole would suffer. The National Examination Authority announced that the second round of the 1403 university entrance exam would take place in Kabul on the 1st of Saratan and span two days.

The protest by these girls in Kabul sheds light on the challenges faced by young women in accessing education in Afghanistan. Their voices highlight the urgent need for equal educational opportunities for all, regardless of gender. It is crucial for the authorities to address these concerns and ensure that girls have the same rights and access to education as boys. The future of Afghanistan depends on empowering its youth, both girls and boys, through education.