Afghan girls pursue dreams through art and education
Girls adapt to restrictions through online courses, calligraphy, and creative skills
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghan girls are defying educational barriers by turning to alternative learning methods, including online courses, art, calligraphy, and language studies, as classrooms remain closed to them.
The Taliban’s suspension of girls’ education beyond sixth grade, extended to universities, has not deterred their aspirations, as reported by Pajhwok Afghan News.
Officials claim the ban is temporary, pending the creation of a “suitable environment,” but many girls refuse to wait, finding innovative ways to continue their growth and education.
Nabila Wahabzada, a dentistry student in Kabul, struggled when the ban began but quickly found a path forward.
“I revised old textbooks, interned at a dental clinic, and joined an English course. Now, I’m in my seventh semester at an online women’s university,” she shared.
Similarly, Hajira, a former 12th-grade student, turned to Quran recitation, computer courses, and calligraphy while awaiting the reopening of schools.
“I urge girls to keep learning and growing however they can,” she said to Pajhwok Afghan News.
Creativity as a form of resistance
For some, art and writing have become outlets for self-expression and hope. In Nimroz province, Sara Zori, who was denied university entry, wrote a book of true stories and honed her painting and poetry skills.
“Afghan girls should never give up,” Sara said, encouraging others to persevere.
In the same province, Setara Barakzai joined online courses in English, Arabic, and public speaking while learning tailoring to gain practical skills.
“My achievements may be small, but I want to make the best use of my time,” Setara remarked.
Former Herat University student Bahar Anwari transformed her setback into an opportunity by teaching younger students and mastering miniature painting.
“I want to pass this art form to other girls so they have something meaningful to pursue,” she said.
Education expert Abdullah Kakar Nesari expressed optimism about the future.
“The ban won’t last forever. It’s inspiring to see girls productively using their time and already achieving success,” he said to Pajhwok Afghan News.
Despite the restrictions, Afghan girls continue to display remarkable resilience, proving their determination to learn and grow is unyielding. Their creativity and commitment are acts of quiet resistance, keeping their dreams alive.
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