Taliban Bans Teacher’s Day Celebrations in Herat, Sparks Widespread Criticism

DID Press: Taliban’s Department of Education in Herat province has officially banned all events, programs, or celebrations of World Teacher’s Day in both public and private schools, according to a formal letter issued by the department. The directive, signed by Habibullah, head of Herat education department, has drawn sharp criticism domestically and internationally.

The letter, issued on Saturday, October 4, orders all schools to refrain from holding any cultural events, celebrations, or gatherings in observance of Teacher’s Day. It also prohibits collecting money from students or teachers under any pretext, warning that school administrators will be held accountable for violations.

Before the Taliban’s return to power, World Teacher’s Day was celebrated nationwide with cultural programs, teacher recognitions, and active student participation. The new ban is seen as another sign of the Taliban’s tightening restrictions on the country’s educational environment.

The decision has provoked widespread reactions from human rights activists, educational organizations, and social media users. Critics have described the move as “a blatant insult to teachers” and “a deliberate effort to erase Afghanistan’s cultural and educational symbols.”

On social media, hashtags such as #TeachersDay and #TalibanAgainstEducation have reflected public concern over ongoing restrictions, particularly affecting female educators.

Some international observers interpret the ban as part of broader Taliban policies aimed at weakening the education system and reducing women’s roles in society, warning that it could have long-term negative implications for education and human development in Afghanistan.