The Islamic Emirate spokesperson said the caretaker government considers learning science necessary for everyone in the nation and says that the current government would act in accordance with Islamic teachings, on the “International Day of Women and Girls in Science”.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated on 11 February, is implemented by UNESCO and UN Women, in collaboration with institutions and civil society partners that aim to promote women and girls in science.
“Science and knowledge are essential to human beings, and we are working to take steps in this regard and find solutions to our challenges. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan acts in line with Islamic principles,” said Zabiullah Mujahid, the spokesman of the Islamic Emirate.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized gender equality in learning science at the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
“More women and girls in science equals a better future for all. We must promote gender equality in science by affirming women’s rights & breaking down stereotypes. Let’s all do our part to fill classrooms, laboratories & boardrooms with women scientists,” he said.
On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Called for More Participation of Women and Girls in education, training and Science and Technology.
“On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science celebrated on 11 February, H. E. Hissein Brahim Taha, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), has called upon Member States and relevant OIC institutions to intensify efforts in ensuring the rights of all Women and Girls in Science and technology, and to strengthen international cooperation, raise awareness about the rights of women and girls in science and technology,” OIC statement reads.
The United Nations on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science said that “Afghan women and girls deserve to be educated at all levels.”
“They are a great example of hope and hard work – if Afghan women/girls are given an opportunity, they can help build the innovative, technology-enabled world of the future. Afghan women and girls deserve to be educated at all levels,” US Embassy Kabul said in a tweet.
Meanwhile, female students asked the Islamic Emirate to reopen schools for girls as soon as possible.
“We ask the international community, Islamic countries and particularly the Islamic Emirate to reopen schools for students,” said Nazira, a student.
“If a woman is literate, she produces a literate society, and if a man is literate, he can only address his issues,” said Nargis, another student.
Girls have been denied an education in middle and high schools for more than 500 days, and on December 20, 2022, the Ministry of Higher Education also banned them from going to university.
