Karzai Urges Girls’ Education as Key to Afghanistan’s Self-Reliance

DID Press: Former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai has called for immediate lifting of restrictions on girls’ education, warning that continued limitations could severely undermine Afghanistan’s long-term development.

Karzai’s remarks came in response to a new report by UNICEF, which highlights the far-reaching consequences of restricting access to education for girls and employment for women.

He stressed that education is the foundation of sustainable development, stating that depriving half of the population of learning opportunities not only raises serious concerns about social justice but also jeopardizes the country’s future.

Karzai warned that maintaining such policies would deepen Afghanistan’s dependence on foreign aid while limiting its capacity for economic growth and self-sufficiency. He emphasized that lasting solutions to the country’s challenges require inclusive education and active participation from all citizens.

Meanwhile, UNICEF reported that if current restrictions persist, Afghanistan could face a shortage of more than 25,000 female professionals in the education and healthcare sectors by 2030.

The report noted that a lack of female teachers and healthcare workers—especially in conservative areas—has already significantly reduced access to education for girls and medical services for women.

UNICEF further cautioned that beyond social consequences, these restrictions carry serious economic implications and risk slowing the country’s overall development trajectory.

Karzai concluded by urging authorities to reconsider current policies and reopen schools and universities to girls, describing it as essential for Afghanistan’s progress and stability.