Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Afghan Girls Seek Education in Madrassas Amid School Ban
In Afghanistan, the Taliban government has stopped girls from going to school after primary school.
Because of this, many girls are going to religious schools called madrassas instead.
These schools teach about the Quran and Islam.
Some girls want to become doctors, but they can't go to regular schools to study.
Even though they can't go to regular schools, they hope that studying religion will help them.
Some people think it's important for girls to learn both religious subjects and other subjects like math and science.
The education ban has caused disagreements, and many worry about the problems this will cause for the country's future.
Taliban's ban on secondary and higher education for girls in Afghanistan has led many to enroll in madrassas.
Madrassas, religious schools, are seeing increased enrollment, with some centers having almost entirely female student populations.
Students study the Quran, Islamic jurisprudence, and Arabic, with some hoping to eventually study medicine.
Officials report a significant rise in madrassa enrollment, with over 3 million students total.
The ban has drawn dissent, with some officials recognizing its negative impact on the nation's future.
- Who
- Afghan girls and women, the Taliban government, and officials from various educational centers.
- What
- Girls in Afghanistan are turning to madrassas, or religious schools, due to the Taliban's ban on secondary and higher education for girls.
- When
- The ban was implemented three years ago.
- Where
- Afghanistan
- Why
- Due to the ban on secondary and higher education, girls are seeking educational opportunities at madrassas.
Supporters of Madrassa Education
Advocates of Balanced Education
Curriculum Focus
Supporters of Madrassa Education
Emphasis on religious studies provides a foundation for understanding Islamic teachings and responsibilities.
Advocates of Balanced Education
Advocates for the importance of combining religious and modern sciences.
- Education Ban
- Secondary and higher education for girls
- Madrassa Focus
- Quran, Islamic jurisprudence, Arabic
- Student Demographics
- Mostly female, various ages
- Enrollment Increase
- Significant growth in madrassa attendance
- Estimated Total Madrassa Students
- Over 3 million