RASC News Agency: Some girls and women from the western provinces of Afghanistan confirm that they abstained from celebrating Eid al-Fitr and are grappling with emotional and psychological distress.
Samia Ansari, a woman from Herat province, disclosed to RASC News Agency on Saturday, April 13th, that she refrained from purchasing even a single scarf for herself during Eid al-Fitr. Instead, she spent the days in sorrow and mourning, distancing herself from her studies and education. Ansari added that it has been nearly three years since she was deprived of attending school, and she currently spends her days and nights at home, feeling mentally and emotionally burdened. She mentioned that, like her, thousands of girls and women refrained from celebrating Eid due to the closure of schools and universities, mourning their uncertain fate within the confines of their homes. She added, “The day schools and universities reopen will mark a joyful occasion and Eid for me, as I can resume my education.”
Meanwhile, women’s rights activists in Afghanistan emphasize the urgent need for global attention to reopen schools and universities, rescuing many girls and women from despair and depression.
Halima Bakhtiyari, a women’s rights activist in Afghanistan, conveyed to RASC, “The situation has reached a critical juncture, and women in the country find no joy in their future apart from their education.” She directly addressed the Taliban, urging them, “After three years of closed schools and universities, come and reopen them for girls and women; observe the transformative changes society’s growth and development will undergo.” Bakhtiyari further added that if the Taliban prioritize reopening educational institutions, they will inherently gain both domestic and international legitimacy.
Meanwhile, Kubra, another girl from Farah province, recounted to RASC that she had been admitted to the hospital several times due to mental illness, with doctors diagnosing the monotony of life as the primary cause. She emphasized that the Taliban should contemplate reopening schools and universities to satisfy the populace. In her view, each passing day under Taliban rule, with educational institutions shuttered, further distances youth from education and knowledge.
Similarly, Leila, a student in a school in Badghis province, conveyed to RASC that there is a palpable absence of joy and hope for a brighter future that could warm one’s heart and propel them to pursue their aspirations. According to her, women hold a lofty position in the noble religion of Islam, deserving respect, and recognition as integral members of Islamic society. She asserted that the current situation contradicts prevailing beliefs that every member of Afghanistani society has a place for themselves.
These sentiments arise as Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has repeatedly discussed the reopening of schools and universities in Afghanistan. Yet, no concrete actions have been taken, and the closure of educational institutions continues to adversely affect girls and women.
