“The return of the Taliban has extinguished all my aspirations”

“Each morning, I used to wake up with renewed hope, eagerly preparing to go to university. I was just four months away from completing my schooling and had even begun wearing a white gown.

I was an outstanding student and worked hard to bring my dreams to fruition. I had completed 11 semesters and was on the verge of realizing my aspirations. However, with the arrival of the Taliban, which prohibited girls from attending university, all my dreams were shattered.

The Taliban have taken away all freedoms from Afghan women and girls. They have banned women from pursuing education, working, going to the park and travelling without a male companion.

As schools and universities were banned for girls beyond the sixth grade, my brother and I embarked on a mission to provide scholarship services to youth, particularly girls who were unable to continue their education due to the ban. Unfortunately, my efforts were hampered by the restrictions imposed by the Taliban.

I waited for an entire year, hoping to see the reopening of universities for girls, but they have yet to open their doors.

In the end, I had to apply to various international universities to continue my education. My application was accepted by the University of People, where I will be studying Computer Science starting in November. However, it’s painful for me to deviate from my original field of study.

The resurgence of the Taliban has plunged many women into depression and mental health issues, leading some to contemplate suicide. Women and girls have been stripped of their basic rights, including the right to work, receive an education and participate in social activities.

We, the women of Afghanistan, implore the international community and the United Nations to assist Afghan women in regaining their basic rights and freedoms.”