The article outlines several key developments in Afghanistan, including new educational restrictions for girls, the reopening of the Torkham border crossing, improvements in railway connections with neighboring countries, condemnation of Israeli actions in Gaza, and the precarious situation for Afghan women scholars studying abroad.
The commencement of Afghanistan’s new school year has been marked by restrictions limiting girls’ participation to classes only until the sixth grade. Mawlawi Habibullah Agha, the acting Education Minister, emphasized the need for both religious and modern education for Afghanistan’s global engagement. Consequently, while over 10 million children, predominantly boys, are set to attend school, the prohibition on higher education for girls continues to reflect significant gender-based educational disparities within the country.
After a prolonged closure lasting 27 days, the Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has officially reopened as of March 20. This reopening followed successful negotiations among jirga members from both nations concerning disputes over construction activities, leading to a ceasefire set to last until April 15. The previous closure had resulted in the stalling of 5,000 trucks and considerable financial losses. Currently, the border is open for cargo movement, although pedestrian access will resume post-repairs, and both countries have agreed to halt further construction of checkposts in the vicinity.
In the realm of transportation, Afghanistan is making concerted efforts to improve its railway connectivity with neighboring countries including Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Pakistan. At the International Peace and Trust conference in Turkmenistan, Mohammad Ashraf Haqshanas, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, underscored the railway’s pivotal role in fostering regional economic growth and trade. The conference, attended by representatives from 100 nations, focused on railway expansion and energy transmission issues, aiming to strengthen economic stability in the region.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has vocally condemned the recent Israeli military actions in Gaza, which have led to significant civilian casualties, particularly among women and children. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs classified these actions as human rights violations and called for international support for the Palestinian people. Afghanistan reiterated its commitment to the Palestinian cause, viewing it as a significant right within the Islamic community.
The situation for Afghan women scholars remains precarious, with over 80 women studying in Oman under US-funded scholarships receiving a temporary extension following cuts in USAID funding. The US State Department has clarified that these scholarships will remain active until June 30, 2025, allowing these women to continue their graduate studies in areas like STEM. Despite their gratitude for the financial reprieve, these scholars continue to face uncertainty regarding their future and the potential challenges they might encounter if they return to Afghanistan.
In summary, Afghanistan is grappling with significant educational restrictions for girls, the reopening of key border crossings, the enhancement of regional railway connections, condemnation of actions against Palestine, and ongoing challenges for women scholars. These issues reflect the complex interplay of education, trade, and human rights within the region, emphasizing both the progress and the significant challenges that Afghanistan continues to face.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
