The article discusses the new educational restrictions for girls in Afghanistan, the reopening of the Torkham border crossing, enhancements to railway connections with neighboring countries, condemnation of the Israeli military operations in Gaza, and the effects of USAID funding cuts on Afghan women scholars.
Afghanistan’s new school year has commenced, presenting a restrictive educational policy preventing girls from attending classes post-sixth grade. Acting Education Minister Mawlawi Habibullah Agha emphasized the significance of integrating both religious and modern education to facilitate Afghanistan’s global engagements. While over 10 million children will be enrolled in schools, the prohibition of higher education for girls underscores the persistent gender-based educational challenges within the nation.
The Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan reopened after a 27-day closure, attributed to disputes over construction activities. Effective March 20, this reopening followed discussions between representatives from both countries, culminating in a ceasefire until April 15. The closure had resulted in severe trade interruptions, leaving approximately 5,000 trucks stranded and causing financial losses reaching millions. Cargo movement has resumed, and pedestrian passages will reinitiate once crucial repairs are completed, alongside an agreement to halt checkpost construction.
In an effort to bolster economic connections, Afghanistan is enhancing its railway links with neighboring countries including Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Pakistan. This initiative was highlighted at the International Peace and Trust conference in Turkmenistan. Mohammad Ashraf Haqshanas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, underscored the essential role of railways in fostering regional economic growth and facilitating trade. The conference united representatives from 100 countries to address railway expansion and energy transmission issues, aiming to strengthen regional economic stability.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has firmly denounced the Israeli military operations in Gaza that have led to over 300 Palestinian fatalities, largely affecting women and children. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized these actions as significant human rights violations and called for international solidarity with the Palestinian people. Afghanistan reaffirmed its commitment to the Palestinian cause, recognizing it as an essential right of the Islamic Ummah.
The impact of reduced USAID funding on Afghan women scholars remains concerning, as over 80 women studying in Oman under US grants were initially faced with funding cuts. The US State Department has now assured that these scholarships will be sustained until June 30, 2025, allowing these women the opportunity to pursue advanced studies, especially in STEM disciplines. Despite their gratitude for this extension, these scholars express trepidation about their future and the dangers they may face upon returning to a Taliban-governed Afghanistan.
In summary, Afghanistan’s current educational restrictions for girls, the reopening of the Torkham border, the enhancement of railway connections, condemnation of the Israeli conflict in Gaza, and ongoing concerns regarding funding impacts on women scholars highlight a mix of challenges and developments within the country. These issues underscore the ongoing need for international attention and support to improve the situation in Afghanistan moving forward.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
