Education International

ATROAfghan Teachers' Rights Observatory

Testimony

Shakila, a female teacher for over 15 years in a girls’ school in the Balkh province

I have been very unhappy for the last year due to the unsafe situation. Unfortunately, my daughters are currently not allowed to attend school, which badly impacts their morale. As a teacher, I continue to go to school, while my daughters remain at home. This imbalance is unjust, and the situation is taking a toll on all of us.

Furthermore, I have only received partial and irregular portions of my salary, which adds to the challenges we are facing.

Beyond the fundamental right to education for all girls, I strongly believe that teachers should have academic freedom. This would not only contribute to a more equitable educational environment but also empower educators to better fulfill their roles in shaping the future. I hope these issues can be addressed to create a more just and supportive educational system for students and teachers.

More Testimonies

Hasina, a female teacher in a boys’ school in the Badakhashan province

Female teachers are treated as if we were toys or mere pawns. One day, we are asked to sign, and the next day, we are told not to come to school. The frustration witnessed through the eyes of our students is beyond words, filled with sadness and resentment. This has been our reality for a year.

Anonymous

Although the Taliban’s education minister had promised that Afghan teachers’ salaries would increase, there are many problems. The Taliban’s policy of not allowing male teachers to teach girls and female teachers to teach boys has made things worse.

Mawlana, a male teacher for 3 years in a secondary boys’ school in Samangan

In recent months, the situation has not been easy. What gives me energy is seeing how important education is for Afghan citizens. I am totally in favour of girls being able to go to school and women being able to teach like men. I am a member of a trade union and I see what they do to defend teachers like me.