Recently the Taliban have directed the closure of medical institutions for women in Afghanistan. Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi have raised criticism against the Taliban’s closure of medical courses for women, saying that it will be injustice towards women’s rights and the country’s future, requesting the authorities to review their decision. Getting education is the basic right of every citizen but Taliban’s decision is very unfair for the women of our country.
Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, two famous players of Afghanistan Cricket team , have criticised the Taliban’s decision of terminating the educational institutions for women training as nurses and midwives.
The Taliban’s recent decision of stopping medical education for women in Afghanistan shows a prominent betrayal in women’s rights and access to education, specifically as medical fields were the only option available to them.
As of August 2021, Afghanistan banned secondary and higher education for girls. And now this recent policy bans women from participating in public life and getting medical education.
Rashid Khan stated his views on X, saying that education holds significant importance in Islam and it is equally important for both men and women to get education.
Government shouldn’t refrain women from getting medical education, as nurses and midwives are equally important for any country. He further said that medical experts are an intense need of our country including every other professional field.
“It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I reflect on the recent closures of educational and medical institutions for the sisters and mothers of Afghanistan. This decision has profoundly affected not only their future but also the broader fabric of our society. The pain and sorrow they express through social media serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles they face,” he said.
He further pointed out the country’s urgent need for skilled professionals, particularly in the medical field. “Afghanistan, our beloved homeland, stands at a critical juncture. The country desperately needs professionals in every field, especially the medical sector. The acute shortage of female doctors and nurses is particularly concerning, as it directly impacts the healthcare and dignity of women. It is essential for our sisters and mothers to have access to care provided by medical professionals who truly understand their needs,” he said.
Reacting to the Taliban’s decision, Mohammad Nabi said, “The Taliban’s decision to ban girls from studying medicine is not only heart-breaking but deeply unjust. Islam has always emphasised the importance of education for everyone, and history is full of inspiring examples of Muslim women who made vital contributions to many generations through knowledge.”
Nabi requested the Taliban to review their decision, “I urge the Taliban to reflect on these values. Denying girls the chance to learn and serve their people is a betrayal of both their dreams and our nation’s future. Let our daughters study, grow, and build a better Afghanistan for everyone. This is their right, and it is our duty to protect it.”