The Taliban's ban on higher education for Afghan girls has now lasted over a year, with no signs of universities reopening for female students across Afghanistan.

This enduring prohibition, despite domestic protests and international calls for change, marks a significant setback in women's rights in the country.

Afghanistan International reported that a number of female students feel they have lost their future and hope due to this ban. One of them, Bano, a journalism student, had her studies halted with the Taliban's ascent to power and the closure of university doors. She expressed despair over her restricted life, confined to her home, and the detrimental impact this has had on her mental health.

On 20 December 2022, the Taliban's Ministry of Higher Education announced the suspension of girls' university education until further notice. Since then, the regime has not only refrained from reopening educational institutions for women but has also imposed additional limitations on their social life.

Other female students have voiced strong opposition to any recognition of the Taliban administration, arguing that such engagement would further undermine the plight of Afghan girls.

Moreover, just days after shutting down universities for female students, the Taliban also prohibited women from working in non-governmental organisations in Afghanistan. This move further illustrates the group's restrictive stance on women's rights and freedoms.

Despite ongoing internal resistance and external pressures, the Taliban remains unmoved in their stance, continuing to deny Afghan women and girls access to education and professional opportunities.