International Day of Education 2023: Prioritizing the Education of Afghan Girls and Women

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has declared that the International Day of Education 2023 will be dedicated to Afghan girls and women, as stated by the director-general of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay on January 21, 2023.

The decision to dedicate the International Day of Education to Afghan girls and women is a crucial step towards addressing the significant barriers that these individuals face in accessing education. According to UNESCO, Afghanistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world, with only 39% of the population being literate, and only 12% of Afghan women being literate.

Education is a fundamental human right, and the denial of this right to Afghan girls and women is a violation of their basic human rights. It is crucial that we prioritize the education of Afghan girls and women, in order to empower them and give them the tools they need to improve their lives and the lives of those around them.

The Importance of Education for Sustainable Development

Education is not only a human right, but it is also essential for achieving Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. Education is a key driver of sustainable development, as it promotes economic growth, and reduces poverty and inequality.

In order to accelerate progress toward the SDGs, it is crucial that we prioritize education, particularly for marginalized and disadvantaged groups such as Afghan girls and women. Education is one of the most powerful tools we have for breaking the cycles of poverty and inequality, and for building a more just and sustainable future for all.

The Challenges Faced by Afghan Girls and Women in Accessing Education

Afghan girls and women face a range of challenges in accessing education, including cultural and societal barriers, lack of resources and infrastructure, and ongoing conflict and insecurity.

• Cultural and societal barriers: Traditionally, girls’ education has not been valued in Afghanistan. Many families still believe that girls should not be educated and that their role is to stay at home and take care of the family.
• Lack of resources and infrastructure: Afghanistan has a poor education infrastructure, with a shortage of schools, particularly in rural areas, and a shortage of trained teachers. This makes it difficult for girls and women to access education, particularly in remote and rural areas.
• Ongoing conflict and insecurity: The ongoing conflict and insecurity in Afghanistan also make it difficult for girls and women to access education. Schools are often closed or destroyed, and girls and women are at risk of violence and abuse when they try to attend school.

Conclusion

The dedication of the International Day of Education 2023 to Afghan girls and women is a crucial step towards addressing the significant barriers that these individuals face in accessing education. Education is a fundamental human right, and it is crucial that we prioritize the education of Afghan girls and women in order to empower them and give them the tools they need to improve their lives and the lives of those around them.