A number of female students in Kabul have found solace in the art of painting to portray the challenges and constraints faced by women and girls in Afghanistan.
The students view their artistic creations as a medium to express the pain and suffering endured by girls within society.
The painting students are urging the Taliban to reopen schools and universities to facilitate girls’ education in the country.
One such artist, Forozan Haqjo, was in the 10th grade when the Taliban imposed a ban on girls above the 6th grade from attending school. Haqjo, now a dedicated painting student, utilizes her workshop to depict the restrictions imposed by the Taliban.
She shared that she turned to painting about a year ago to channel her emotions and experiences.
“Art is a powerful way to convey emotions,” said Haqjo.
In this collective workshop, female students use their artwork as a message to the Taliban, advocating for the progress and empowerment of women and girls in Afghanistan.
Through their paintings, these students emphasize the vital role of women in education, sports, and various other fields.
Several of these young artists implore the Taliban to reopen educational institutions to ensure equal access for women.
“We deserve the right to learn and grow,” said Hasina, one of the students.
“We dream of a brighter future through education,” added Zainab, another passionate student.
Despite waiting for over twenty months, female students are still hopeful for the reopening of schools.
The Taliban’s restrictive measures extend beyond schools, as they have shuttered all educational centers for girls and women and have prohibited women from working in non-governmental organizations.
