Author: Hasibullah Tarin
Girls’ Education Advocate
Abstract
Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, systematic restrictions on girls’ education have raised serious concerns among national and international observers. This article critically examines the Taliban’s current stance on female education, particularly in relation to the administration of the Kankor university entrance examination. Drawing on Islamic teachings and historical precedents, the article argues that the exclusion of Afghan girls from education directly contradicts the core values of Islam. The paper concludes by emphasizing the long-term socio-political implications of this gender-based educational apartheid and questions the ideological legitimacy of such policies.
1. Introduction
Education is a fundamental human right and a pillar of societal development. In Afghanistan, the Kankor examination has long served as the principal gateway for students—regardless of gender—to pursue higher education at the bachelor’s level. Administered annually by the Afghan government, the exam typically takes place between December and February.
Since the Taliban regained control in August 2021, their de facto government has conducted the Kankor examination three times—each instance marked by the complete exclusion of Afghan girls. The year 2024 marks yet another year of systemic denial of educational opportunities for Afghan females, highlighting a continuing trend of gender discrimination under Taliban rule.
2. Historical Context and Islamic Perspective
The current educational policies of the Taliban resonate disturbingly with pre-Islamic customs in Arabia, where girls were marginalized and even subjected to infanticide due to societal shame. Islam emerged in this context as a revolutionary force, advocating for the dignity, protection, and equality of women. The Qur’an explicitly states:
“And women have rights similar to those of men over them…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:228)
The Qur’anic narrative frequently addresses both “believing men and women,” signifying equal moral, spiritual, and intellectual obligations and entitlements.
3. Education as an Islamic Obligation
Islam’s emphasis on knowledge acquisition is profound and unambiguous. The Holy Qur’an declares:
“Are those who know equal to those who do not know? It is only those who are endowed with understanding that take heed.” (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:9)
Prophetic traditions (Hadith) further strengthen this obligation. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said:
“The acquisition of knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 1:224)
These teachings collectively affirm that education is not a privilege but a religious duty, equally incumbent upon both men and women.
4. Ideological Contradictions and Moral Legitimacy
By denying girls access to education, the Taliban fundamentally undermine the very Islamic principles they claim to uphold. This contradiction calls into question the moral and religious legitimacy of their governance. Their actions appear more aligned with pre-Islamic ignorance (Jahiliyyah) than with the enlightened principles of Islam. Thus, one is compelled to ask: Can one truly be a Muslim while actively defying divine commandments concerning justice, equality, and knowledge?
This dilemma can be encapsulated in a stark dichotomy: either be a Talib or a Muslim—the two no longer seem ideologically compatible under current circumstances.
5. Conclusion
Afghans have endured prolonged suffering due to war, poverty, and oppression. However, history has demonstrated that authoritarian attempts to suppress human rights and dignity—especially in the domain of education—ultimately provoke resistance. While the present may appear bleak for Afghan girls, the pursuit of education is deeply rooted in both human conscience and Islamic tradition. It is only a matter of time before Afghan society collectively demands answers and justice.
References
• The Holy Qur’an, Surahs Al-Baqarah (2:228) and Az-Zumar (39:9)
• Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 224, Book 1
• Relevant academic and Islamic jurisprudence texts on education and women’s rights in Islam
