On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the European Union (EU) and UNESCO have emphasized their support for the right to education for girls in Afghanistan.
The EU stressed that education and scientific opportunities in the fields of technology, engineering, and mathematics are essential for Afghan women and girls.
The EU in Afghanistan said, “Women’s participation in education and in the workforce is not just a matter of equality — it is essential for the self-sufficiency, development, and prosperity of any nation. The EU remains committed to supporting women and girls, and all those whose rights are persistently violated in Afghanistan.”
UNESCO also declared its support for girls in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of access to educational environments and inclusive learning.
UNESCO wrote: “Ensuring access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and opportunities empowers Afghan women and girls to shape a brighter future for all.
On this International Day of Women and Girlsin Science, we advocate for inclusive learning environments where talent can thrive. ”
On the other hand, girls who have been deprived of education once again emphasized the need to provide education opportunities for all girls.
“If I had stayed at home, I might have fallen into depression, and perhaps I wouldn’t have become the girl who wanted to reach her dreams. That’s why I opened the door to medical institutes and entered the world of medicine, becoming a nurse,” said Vida, one of the students.
“Unfortunately, on the day when the world celebrates International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Afghan girls are stuck at home, suffering from anxiety and emotional distress, mourning their lost dreams,” Howida, another student, told TOLOnews.
Tafsir Siyahposh, a women’s rights activist, told Tolo News: “Basic sciences start from school, but today the doors of schools are closed. How can we claim to reach other sciences when we can’t even access basic education? We hope the doors of schools and universities open as soon as possible.”
In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. On this day, the world honors the achievements of women and girls in various fields, including science and technology.