Taliban Shut Down Literacy Classes, Dismiss Female Teachers Across Rural Afghanistan

KABUL (APP): The Taliban have reportedly dismissed all female teachers working in adult literacy classes across rural districts in Afghanistan. These classes were part of community education programs managed under the Directorate of Education.
According to local sources, the teachers’ salaries came from humanitarian organizations that supported adult learning. However, the Taliban have now closed the literacy programs completely and terminated all female instructors.

Restrictions Deepen on Women’s Education and Work

This decision adds to a growing list of restrictions imposed since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Girls remain banned from attending secondary schools and universities. Women are also barred from most jobs, except in limited sectors such as health care.
Aid agencies warn that excluding women from education has far-reaching consequences. As a result, community learning programs have collapsed, particularly those focusing on literacy for women and girls.
The Taliban have not yet issued an official statement on the reported dismissals.

A Major Setback for Women’s Literacy

International organizations have expressed concern over the impact of these actions. Humanitarian workers say female educators play a vital role in improving literacy and empowering women in rural areas. Their removal could erase years of progress made through community education initiatives.
According to UNESCO, fewer than 30 percent of Afghan women are literate — one of the lowest rates globally. The agency has warned that continued bans on girls’ education and restrictions on women teachers threaten to undo two decades of progress in learning and empowerment across Afghanistan.