Afghanistan’s new school year imposes restrictions on girls’ education beyond sixth grade; the Torkham border has reopened after 27 days; enhancements to railway connections with neighboring countries are being pursued; the Islamic Emirate condemned Israeli actions in Gaza; over 80 Afghan women students in Oman receive extended scholarships amid USAID funding cuts.
The new school year in Afghanistan has commenced under a restrictive policy that limits girls’ education beyond the sixth grade. Mawlawi Habibullah Agha, the acting Education Minister, emphasized the significance of both religious and modern education for Afghanistan’s global engagement. While over 10 million children are set to attend school—boys from grades one to twelve and girls only up to grade six—the ongoing prohibition on higher education for girls reflects persistent gender-based educational restrictions in the nation.
Following a 27-day closure due to construction disputes, the Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened. Effective from March 20, negotiations between jirga members resolved the issues leading to the reopening, which includes a ceasefire lasting until April 15. The previous closure had caused trade disruptions, stranding 5,000 trucks and resulting in millions in financial losses. Currently, cargo movement is allowed with pedestrian access to resume after essential repairs are completed. Both nations have agreed to stop the construction of checkposts in the border area.
Afghanistan is actively enhancing its railway connections with neighboring countries, including Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Pakistan. This initiative was highlighted at the International Peace and Trust conference in Turkmenistan, where Mohammad Ashraf Haqshanas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, discussed the importance of railways for regional economic development and trade facilitation. The conference, attended by representatives from 100 countries, aimed to address railway expansion and energy transmission issues to support regional economic stability.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan condemned the recent Israeli military operations in Gaza resulting in over 300 Palestinian deaths, primarily among women and children. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized these acts as human rights violations and called for global unity with the Palestinian people. Afghanistan reiterated its support for the Palestinian cause, viewing it as a fundamental right of the Islamic Ummah.
Afghan women scholars face ongoing challenges as over 80 students studying in Oman with US-funded scholarships received extension amid recent USAID funding cuts. The US State Department has confirmed financial support will continue until June 30, 2025, enabling these women, who fled the Taliban’s oppressive regime, to pursue graduate studies, especially in STEM fields. While they appreciate the funding extension, these scholars remain concerned about their uncertain future and potential risks when returning to Afghanistan.
In summary, Afghanistan’s educational landscape continues to face significant restrictions for girls, while geopolitical dynamics regarding border relations and international support are evolving. The reopening of the Torkham border marks progress in trade relations, and the enhancement of railway connectivity aims to foster economic growth. Concurrently, Afghanistan’s stance on international humanitarian issues reflects its commitments beyond its borders. The challenges faced by Afghan women pursuing education highlight the critical intersection of global support and local realities.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
