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Prominent Afghanistan cricketers Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi have spoken out vehemently against the Taliban’s recent directive to shut down educational institutions for women training as nurses and midwives. This decision has drawn widespread criticism, as it further restricts women’s access to education in Afghanistan.
The Taliban’s latest policy halts medical education for women in both public and private institutions, effectively closing off the last remaining field of study available to Afghan women. Previously, exemptions had allowed women to pursue careers in medicine despite broader bans on secondary and higher education. The new prohibition signifies a tightening grip on women’s rights in the country.
Rashid Khan: “Education is central to Islamic teachings”
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Rashid expressed his profound sadness and disappointment at the closure of these institutions, emphasizing that education holds a fundamental place in Islamic teachings. He highlighted that Islam encourages the pursuit of knowledge for both men and women, and he underscored Afghanistan’s dire need for skilled professionals, especially in the medical sector.
“It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I reflect on the recent closures of educational and medical institutions for the sisters and mothers of Afghanistan. This decision has profoundly affected not only their future but also the broader fabric of our society. The pain and sorrow they express through social media serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles they face,” Rashid wrote.
The cricketer further emphasized the urgent requirement for female professionals in Afghanistan’s healthcare system. “Afghanistan, our beloved homeland, stands at a critical juncture. The country desperately needs professionals in every field, especially the medical sector. The acute shortage of female doctors and nurses is particularly concerning, as it directly impacts the healthcare and dignity of women. It is essential for our sisters and mothers to have access to care provided by medical professionals who truly understand their needs,” he added.
Rashid concluded his plea by urging policymakers to reconsider this regressive decision. “I sincerely appeal for the reconsideration of this decision so that Afghan girls may reclaim their right to education and contribute to the nation’s development. Providing education to all is not just a societal responsibility but a moral obligation deeply rooted in our faith and values,”
🤲🏻🤲🏻🇦🇫🇦🇫 pic.twitter.com/rYtNtNaw14
— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) December 4, 2024
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Mohammad Nabi: “This decision betrays our nation’s future”
Nabi also took to social media to condemn the Taliban’s decision, labeling it as heartbreaking and deeply unjust. Writing on Facebook, he stressed that Islam has always placed a high value on education for everyone, citing historical examples of Muslim women who have made remarkable contributions to society through knowledge.
“The Taliban’s decision to ban girls from studying medicine is not only heartbreaking but deeply unjust. Islam has always emphasized the importance of education for everyone, and history is full of inspiring examples of Muslim women who made vital contributions to many generations through knowledge,” Nabi wrote.
The former Afghan captain urged the Taliban to reconsider their stance, arguing that denying girls the chance to learn and serve their communities undermines the nation’s future. “I urge the Taliban to reflect on these values. Denying girls the chance to learn and serve their people is a betrayal of both their dreams and our nation’s future. Let our daughters study, grow, and build a better Afghanistan for everyone. This is their right, and it is our duty to protect it,” Nabi concluded.
— Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) December 4, 2024
Broader implications of the ban by Taliban in Afghanistan
Both Rashid and Nabi pointed out the devastating consequences of banning women from medical education. With Afghanistan already facing a severe shortage of female healthcare professionals, the new restriction exacerbates the challenges in providing adequate healthcare to women in the country. It also strips countless women of their aspirations, leaving a deep void in a society desperately in need of progress and inclusivity.
Rashid and Nabi’s heartfelt appeals reflect the broader anguish of many Afghans who recognize the indispensable role of educated women in the nation’s future. Their statements serve as a clarion call for the Taliban to reverse this regressive policy and restore the right to education for Afghan women, a right that is not only enshrined in faith but also fundamental to a nation’s development.
