Hamid Karzai, the former president of Afghanistan, has once again urged the Taliban authorities to reopen secondary schools and universities for girls, stressing that education is essential for national development and self-reliance.

He stated on his social media platform X that he hopes“the doors of schools above grade six and universities for girls will reopen soon.” Karzai also encouraged young people to use every opportunity to pursue knowledge and scientific learning.

Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban have banned girls from attending classes beyond grade six and barred women from universities - a decision that has drawn widespread condemnation at home and abroad.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has warned that by the end of this year, more than 2.2 million girls in Afghanistan will remain out of school. The organization has also reported rising mental health issues, early marriages, and higher birth rates as a result of the education ban.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) marks November 10 as World Science Day for Peace and Development, underscoring education's role in promoting peace, equality, and sustainable growth.

Karzai's renewed appeal comes as calls grow for the Taliban to reverse policies excluding women from public life. Observers say reopening schools and universities for girls is essential for Afghanistan's future stability and global reintegration.

MENAFN11112025000228011069ID1110325021