Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai has renewed his call for the Taliban to reopen schools and universities for women and girls, emphasising on the critical role of education in the country's independence and progress.
Karzai highlighted that Afghanistan's future hinges on the education of its youth, particularly girls. His plea comes amid a three-year ban imposed by the Taliban, which has prevented 1.4 million Afghan girls from accessing secondary and higher education, according to the United Nations.
In a message released on Sunday, marking the 105th anniversary of Afghanistan's independence, Karzai reiterated his hope for national unity and development. "Afghanistan is the common home of all Afghans," he stated. "I hope every citizen of this land, with a full sense of ownership and freedom, will have the opportunity to work and contribute to the country's progress."
Karzai also expressed his aspiration for Afghans to come together and pursue national understanding to ensure lasting peace and stability.
This is not the first time Karzai has called for the reopening of schools and universities. Over the past three years, he has consistently raised this issue. Recently, however, the Taliban's deputy prime minister responded with an unusual laugh when questioned by an Ariana News reporter about the possibility of reopening girls' schools.
Despite the Taliban's restrictions on his movements and visits, Karzai has remained in Kabul for the past three years, continuing to advocate for education and national unity.
