Suhail Shaheen, who leads the Taliban’s political office in Qatar, stated to reporters that women are currently barred from enrolling in Afghan higher education institutions. He added that he could not specify how long the restriction might last, signaling uncertainty about whether the ban would be temporary or lasting. The assertion reflects the Taliban’s ongoing stance on women’s access to university education and follows reports that certain campuses were affected by such policies, triggering concern among students and families about the future of higher learning for Afghan women.
Shaheen’s remarks came amid a broader discussion about gender access within Afghan universities. While officials have framed the restriction as a policy measure, observers note that the timing and duration of the limit remain unclear. Some students recount attempts to attend classes only to be turned away, illustrating the real impact on educational opportunities and the disruption to academic plans for many young women seeking higher education in the country.
Independent reports have indicated that admissions processes have been affected as authorities impose restrictions tied to the current policy environment. Sources have described a climate in which women face barriers at both public and private universities, complicating matters for applicants and raising questions about how institutions will manage enrollment moving forward. This situation underscores a broader shift in Afghan education policy that has drawn reactions from regional and international observers who monitor human rights and access to education in the country.
Earlier developments suggested a formal decree restricting higher education for women, with announcements signaling that girls would be barred from both private and public universities. The decree followed a government meeting and was interpreted by some as a decisive policy move that would shape the educational landscape for Afghan women. The evolving guidance has prompted discussions about enforcement, exemptions, and potential timelines for any changes to the current rules, as communities weigh the implications for families and students planning their academic futures.
Overall, the situation highlights the fragility of access to education for women in Afghanistan under the current political framework. Stakeholders—including students, families, educators, and international partners—are observing closely to understand how the policy will unfold and what safeguards, if any, might be introduced to preserve educational opportunities for women. The chorus of voices calling for clarity and continuity in education emphasizes the importance of transparent communication, consistent policy application, and a commitment to safeguarding the right to learning for all regardless of gender. Attribution: ongoing reporting on Afghan education policy.”