Afghan Girl in Türkiye Symbolically Appointed Mayor of İzmir for One Day

DID Press: An Afghan student living in Türkiye has been symbolically appointed mayor of İzmir for 24 hours as part of a children’s educational program.

Mahnaz Yulmaz, an Afghan student originally from Jowzjan Province, took part in a civic initiative marking World Children’s Day (April 23), where she was selected to assume the honorary role of mayor of İzmir for one day.

The program aims to introduce children to leadership roles and strengthen civic participation among students through experiential learning activities.

Mahnaz, who migrated to Türkiye with her family several years ago, was chosen due to her academic performance and engagement in school activities.

While such opportunities are provided in some countries to encourage youth development, education for girls in Afghanistan remains heavily restricted. Since the return of the Taliban to power, girls above grade six have been barred from attending school, leaving millions without access to secondary and higher education.

The United Nations has warned that these restrictions not only undermine educational progress but may also have long-term consequences for healthcare, employment, and broader social development in Afghanistan.