Harmony Foundation Condemns Taliban's Ban On Women's Education Compelling Them To Study Online

“This regime, driven by a radical interpretation of Islam, has imposed suffocating and draconian restrictions, banning women from education beyond primary school, most professions, and even public spaces like parks,” Dr Mathai, also founder-chairman of the Harmony Foundation, said in a statement.

He said that these measures strip women of dignity, autonomy, and dreams, revealing a regime terrified of their potential. The Taliban’s radical ideology demonstrates retrogression and stagnation, he noted.

Dr. Mathai asserted that this extremist ideology, which silences women’s voices and restricts their autonomy, is not faith but fear and a cowardice that distorts religion into a tool of oppression.

“The radical Islam, as practiced by the Taliban, is out of step with civilization, modernity, and progress, pushing Afghanistan toward regression while the world strives for sustainable development goals,” Dr. Mathai stressed. Radical Islamic fundamentalism is only proving that women are not an integral part of society and thereby negating the fact of equality of men and women, he added.

“Denying women education and opportunities is not just a policy but a deliberate attempt to erase their potential, undermining the universal truth that everyone, regardless of gender, deserves equal rights, education, and the freedom to pursue their aspirations,” he said.

Citing a recent article in The Economic Times about Afghan women turning to online education after being banned from higher education by the Taliban, Dr. Mathai highlighted how technology has become a lifeline, enabling them to access courses anonymously.

He described the internet as a ray of hope, stating, “Without the internet, their oppression would be absolute, leaving no path to education or empowerment.”

However, Dr. Mathai cautioned that this is a fragile victory, as women studying in secret face unreliable internet, limited resources, and the constant threat of Taliban, underscoring the tragedy of a system that forces them to learn in the shadows.

He lauded the work of Afghan Geeks, led by a former refugee based in Greece, as a symbol of defiance, as noted in The Economic Times. By providing free online courses in Dari, this initiative empowers women with skills like coding and access to online internships, defying the Taliban’s bans. Their online university, serving many with the education women dream of, fosters an environment embodying solidarity and resilience.

“This commendable effort helps women reclaim their fundamental rights against overwhelming odds,” Dr. Mathai noted.

However, he stressed that online education is only a small step in a much larger battle and that the courage of these women highlights the urgent need for global action.

Quoting an educationist, Dr. Mathai said, “Educate a woman, and you educate an entire society.” Afghanistan cannot progress with half its population denied education.

He also called the silence of UNESCO on this crisis alarming, emphasizing that their intervention is critical.

Dr. Mathai stated that the Taliban’s policies are a stain on humanity and a reminder that unchecked extremism, which hinders women’s progress, devastates lives.

He emphasized that the international community must amplify Afghan women’s voices, support initiatives like Afghan Geeks, and pressure the Taliban to dismantle these oppressive policies. Equality is non-negotiable, and every woman deserves the right to shape her future without fear.