The closure of secondary schools for girls in Afghanistan has not only affected their education but has also had profound implications for Afghan society and culture, particularly regarding the issue of marriage.
The suspension of educational institutions signifies a severance of girls’ access to learning, personal development, and the acquisition of essential skills, a situation that is likely to exacerbate illacy rates in Afghanistan.
In light of the educational restrictions, many families particularly in rural areas, hold the belief that they must marry off their daughters at an earlier age. This cultural perspective, which posits that girls should marry swiftly to safeguard themselves from displacement and social threats, has led to a rise in early marriages among young girls.
Reports indicate that early marriage has become a troubling trend. Many families believe that marriage is the means to preserve their and mitigate the risks faced by their daughter’s society. This practice not only jeopardizes the health and future of these young women but also represents a violation of human rights.
Simultaneously, the denial of education for girls and the rise of early marriages severely undermine both family and societal economies. Girls compelled to drop out of school become unable to gain employment and provide financial support for their families.
Experts believe that the prohibition of girls attending school in Afghanistan has far-reaching consequences for the culture and society at large. The surge in early marriages and rising illiteracy among girls are but manifestations of the repercussions of this decision. It is, therefore, crucial for international organizations and local institutions to actively advocate for the rights of girls and work towards restoring access to education in Afghanistan.
It has been 1,132 days since girls above grade six have been barred from attending school in Afghanistan, yet despite extensive national and international efforts, the ban on girls’ education remains in place.
- نویسنده : Afghanistan Women News Agency
- منبع خبر : Afghanistan Women News Agency
