KABUL — Former President Hamid Karzai has stressed the critical importance of education, describing it as a “vital, essential, and indisputable” necessity for society.
Speaking at the 38th International Islamic Unity Conference, Karzai called on Islamic nations to continue supporting educational efforts in Afghanistan, particularly in light of current restrictions under Taliban rule.
Karzai argued that questioning the value of education reflects a “misunderstanding and lack of awareness,” noting that knowledge is not only crucial for societal advancement but is also deeply rooted in religious teachings.
“Education and knowledge, beyond being essential for human development, are strongly emphasized by our faith and religious leaders,” he said. “Undoubtedly, the progress and development we see in the world today are the results of educated and skilled individuals. Neglecting education is a clear sign of ignorance about the complexities of modern life.”
He also expressed hope that Muslim nations would collaborate to ensure education is recognized as a fundamental right, especially in Afghanistan. “Our expectation is that through Islamic cooperation, the necessity of education will be fully embraced, and efforts to expand access to knowledge, particularly in Afghanistan, will be intensified,” Karzai said.
Karzai’s remarks come as the Taliban continue to enforce their ban on secondary and higher education for girls and women, a policy that has drawn widespread international criticism, including from Islamic nations. Despite these appeals, the Taliban have yet to reverse their stance.
This comes as the UN special envoy for Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva, in a meeting with Taliban officials in Kabul this week said that at least five million children in Afghanistan are deprived of education.
