RASC News Agency: Over the past year, the Taliban have intensified efforts to establish so-called jihadi schools in Panjshir, where they indoctrinate children and adolescents with their extremist ideology. These institutions, masquerading as orphanages or educational centers, aim to brainwash young minds and mold them into unwavering supporters of the Taliban’s violent agenda. In August this year, the Taliban announced the opening of an orphanage in Panjshir, claiming it was intended to support vulnerable children. However, reports suggest that these facilities are being used as ideological training grounds to align children with the Taliban’s oppressive worldview.
During the inauguration of one such center in Bazarak, Taliban-appointed governor Mohammad Agha Hakim an individual closely associated with al-Qaeda emphasized the group’s supposed commitment to orphans. At the event, a young boy dressed in white robes and a turban was paraded before the media. The boy stated, “We receive food, clothing, and shoes. Our teachers teach us well, and I am content.” Another child echoed similar remarks, further portraying a facade of satisfaction with the Taliban’s actions. Residents of Panjshir, however, view these establishments as instruments of indoctrination designed to entrench the Taliban’s ideology among future generations. They accuse the Taliban of exploiting vulnerable children to sustain their extremist vision, perpetuating cycles of violence and conflict.
Reports reveal that the curriculum in these schools glorifies the Taliban and promotes lessons steeped in extremist rhetoric. Teachers allegedly encourage children to idolize the Taliban and even advocate for suicide bombing, portraying it as a “noble act in the eyes of God.” Locals claim that the Taliban explicitly condone suicide attacks and use these schools to indoctrinate children with the belief that such acts are divinely sanctioned. Asadullah, a resident of Panjshir, condemned these efforts, stating, “The Taliban are systematically destroying the future of our children by filling their minds with hatred and violence. These so-called schools are a direct assault on their prospects for a peaceful and prosperous life.”
In recent months, the Taliban have expanded these ideological training centers across multiple provinces, openly defending their existence. Critics argue that these institutions represent a calculated strategy to entrench the group’s oppressive rule and perpetuate radicalization under the guise of education.
