Annual school examinations began Saturday across the capital and many cold-weather provinces, but for thousands of Afghan girls, this marks a painful milestone. Many sixth-grade girls say they are anxious about their futures, knowing this may be their final year of schooling under the Taliban’s ongoing education ban for girls beyond grade six.
Nadia, a sixth-grade student at a public school in Kabul, said this year could be her last in the classroom, despite her deep desire to become a doctor.
“We were so worried we couldn’t even study properly for the exam,” she said. “This is our final year, and it’s heartbreaking that we may not be able to return to school.”
The nationwide exams commenced amid sustained concerns over the fate of girls’ education in Afghanistan. Since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, they have barred girls from attending secondary and high school, effectively ending formal education for millions of young women.
Maryam, another student preparing for the exam, said the excitement of school has faded knowing she likely won’t be allowed to continue.
“I want to become a doctor, and thousands of girls like me have dreams,” she said. “But we can’t go to school next year.”
Parents, too, expressed frustration and concern.
“What will happen to my daughters’ future?” said Firoza, a Kabul resident. “They are left with no direction. They have hopes and dreams.”
It has been more than 1,500 days since girls above sixth grade were banned from school. One month after reclaiming power, the Taliban announced the restriction in September 2021. Since then, school doors have remained open only to boys, contributing to a reported rise in early marriages and mental health struggles among young girls.
