Afghanistan imposes educational restrictions on girls beyond sixth grade while reopening the Torkham border after a lengthy closure. Efforts to enhance railway connections with neighboring countries are underway, alongside condemnation of the Israeli assault on Gaza. Afghan women studying abroad receive a funding reprieve amidst ongoing challenges.
The start of Afghanistan’s new school year brings significant restrictions for girls, preventing any education beyond the sixth grade. Mawlawi Habibullah Agha, the acting Education Minister, emphasized the need for both religious and modern education to enhance Afghanistan’s global engagement. Although over 10 million children will be able to attend school, the ongoing ban on higher education for girls reflects persistent gender-based educational inequalities in the country.
After a 27-day closure prompted by construction disputes, the Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened as of March 20. The reopening followed negotiations between representatives from both nations and includes a ceasefire lasting until April 15, enabling cargo movement and allowing for the necessary repairs before pedestrian crossings can resume. This closure previously stranded 5,000 trucks and incurred significant financial losses.
Efforts are underway in Afghanistan to improve railway connections with neighboring countries such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Pakistan. This initiative was highlighted at the International Peace and Trust conference in Turkmenistan by Mohammad Ashraf Haqshanas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works. The focus on railway development aims to enhance regional economic growth and trade, with discussions also covering energy transmission issues.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has condemned the recent Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have led to over 300 Palestinian deaths, primarily among women and children. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized these actions as violations of human rights and called for international solidarity with the Palestinians, reiterating Afghanistan’s support for their cause as a legitimate right of the Islamic Ummah.
Following initial funding cuts to USAID allocations, over 80 Afghan women studying in Oman under US scholarships received a temporary reprieve. The US State Department confirmed that these scholarships will now continue until June 30, 2025, allowing these women, who escaped the Taliban’s educational restrictions, to pursue graduate studies, particularly in STEM fields. Despite this, the scholars express concern over their uncertain future and potential risks upon returning to Afghanistan.
This roundup highlights critical issues in Afghanistan, particularly regarding educational restrictions for girls, cross-border relations, and international support for Afghan women. The restrictive policies in education resonate with broader gender issues, while the reopening of the Torkham border signifies progress in trade relations. Furthermore, efforts to enhance railway connectivity demonstrate a focus on regional economic stability amidst ongoing humanitarian concerns and international solidarity.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
