Once high schools reopen on March 22, the Taliban will let females return to class, putting an end to speculation over whether the Islamic organisation will provide them full access to education.

Since the Taliban gained control of the nation in mid-August of last year, it has prohibited girls from attending school in Afghanistan.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) former senior Afghanistan researcher Heather Barr stated that establishing females’ secondary schools is critical.

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“Please, let it happen. But if it does, let’s not breathe a huge sigh of relief and congratulate the Taliban for slightly retreating on just one of their many violations of the rights of women and girls,” HRW sent out in a tweet.

Since assuming power, the Taliban have systematically eroded women’s rights in practically every aspect, including restricting women’s freedom of movement.

The great majority of secondary schools for girls are closed. Universities have recently reopened, with new gender segregation policies in place. Many women, however, are unable to return, in part because the occupation they prepared for is no longer available since the Taliban has barred women from most employment.

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According to HRW, women and girls are denied access to health treatment because certain institutions require them to bring a mahram. According to reports, women and girls experiencing assault have no way out if they can only flee with an abuser guiding them.

Allowing females to attend schools and other educational institutions has been one of the international community’s primary requests.

Because of concerns over the Taliban’s treatment of children and women, the majority of countries have refused to publicly recognise them as well as other human rights concerns

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UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres praised the Taliban’s intention to reopen schools for girls and boys next week on Friday.

“I welcome the plan announced by the Taliban to reopen schools for girls & boys on 22 March, which must now be approved and implemented. All doors must be open for girls & boys to have an education and reach their full potential,” UN chief tweeted.