Afghanistan remains the only country globally where girls are prohibited from receiving education beyond the primary level, according to reports from AFP and Unesco. Since the Taliban returned to power five years ago, the regime has excluded girls from secondary schools and universities, leaving approximately 2.4 million girls without access to secondary education as of August 2026.
The Scale of Educational Exclusion in Afghanistan
The Unesco reported on August 12, 2026, that roughly 2.4 million girls have been barred from secondary education. While some Taliban officials characterize the ban as a temporary measure, the restrictions have been in place since 2022. The government justifies these policies as an application of Islamic law.
However, this religious justification is contested by Afghan citizens. Mohammad, a devout Muslim father interviewed by AFP, stated that the Quran does not reserve education exclusively for men. This sentiment is mirrored in broader data; a 2025 UN Women survey found that 95% of men in urban areas and 87% in rural areas believe secondary education for girls is important.
Did you know? According to a 2025 UN Women survey, the vast majority of Afghan men—up to 95% in cities—support the right for girls to attend secondary school, despite the official government ban.
Clandestine Schools and High-Cost Alternatives
Families are increasingly turning to “underground” or clandestine schools to bypass the ban. Mohammad, a doctor in a small town in Kabul province, enrolls his two daughters in a private clandestine center that teaches general subjects alongside religious programs. He pays approximately 10,000 afghanis (about $150) per month for both children, despite the risk of government inspections and the fact that the center provides no official diplomas.
Other parents attempt to use online learning, though cost remains a significant barrier. Ahmad, an engineer, reports that online courses cost roughly $1,500 annually, a prohibitive sum when his total annual salary is $2,400. In some regions, like Kandahar, the restrictions are even more severe; a social worker identified as N. reports that some schools exclude girls before they even finish primary school if they are considered “too tall.”
The Struggle for Exile and International Visas
For many professional families, the only perceived solution is emigration. Ahmad, whose wife is a mathematics teacher unable to work, has applied for visas in Germany, Denmark, and Sweden. He reports that these requests were unsuccessful, noting a gap between European nations’ public denunciations of the Taliban and the actual number of visas granted to Afghans.
Further complications arose with U.S. visa processes. Ahmad stated that his application was progressing until President Donald Trump froze all petitions. This leaves many families facing the choice between staying in Afghanistan or attempting “too risky” clandestine journeys.
Psychological Impact and Home-Based Learning
M., a logistics manager, describes his 13-year-old daughter’s refusal to attend a madrasa (Quranic center), as she believes there is “no future” for her. Nassir, an administrative employee, reports that his daughter is frequently depressed and lacks the strength to study alone.
To combat this, some families implement strict “school-like” disciplines at home. Nassir and his wife, a teacher, use recovered secondary school books and maintain a rigid schedule of waking and sleeping times to simulate a school environment. His daughters also provide tutoring to younger boys in their building to maintain their academic skills.
Comparison of Educational Alternatives for Afghan Girls
| Option | Pros | Cons/Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Clandestine Schools | General subject curriculum | No diplomas; risk of detention |
| Online Courses | Safe, structured learning | High cost relative to local wages |
| Madrasas | Legal; social interaction | Limited curriculum; low future utility |
| Home Schooling | Zero cost; safe | High psychological toll; no certification |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education for girls completely banned in Afghanistan?
According to AFP and Unesco, girls are prohibited from attending school after the primary level. This includes secondary schools and universities.
How many girls are affected by the secondary education ban?
Unesco reported on August 12, 2026, that approximately 2.4 million girls have been excluded from secondary education.
Do Afghan men support the education of girls?
Yes. A 2025 UN Women survey indicates that 95% of urban men and 87% of rural men in Afghanistan consider secondary education for girls to be important.
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