Afghanistan's Matiullah Wesa Honored With Qatar Anti-Corruption Award

Education activist Matiullah Wesa has received an international anti-corruption award in recognition of his advocacy for access to education, particularly for girls.

The ninth Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Awards ceremony was held on Sunday in Doha, with Qatar's Emir and senior officials in attendance.

Wesa was honored in the“Youth Creativity and Engagement” category, which recognizes individuals promoting integrity, transparency and civic participation.

He is widely known for leading grassroots campaigns to expand educational opportunities in eastern Afghanistan, focusing on rural communities and marginalized groups.

Following political changes in the country, Wesa continued to speak out for girls' right to education, drawing attention from international media and human rights organizations.

In early 2023, he was detained for more than 200 daysby the Taliban, prompting global concern over the treatment of civil society activists.

Since August 2021, the Taliban have banned girls in Afghanistan from attending schools, universities, and medical institutes beyond sixth grade, blocking their education and careers.

Human rights groups warn these restrictions threaten Afghanistan's future, leaving millions of young girls without opportunities in education, healthcare, and professional development.

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