‘We must facilitate education for men, women’

KABUL (TOLOnews): The deputy minister of Foreign Affairs, Sher Mohammad Abas Stanekzai emphasized the need for women’s access to education, saying that it is necessary to pave the way for the education of men and women.
The schools for female students beyond grade six have remained closed for more than 270 days.
Speaking at a gathering in Kabul at the inauguration of “Afghan Invest”, Stanekzai said the Islamic Emirate is committed to the education of men and women.
“It is mandatory for us to provide educational opportunities for every man and woman of this country. This is their natural and Islamic right,” Stanekzai said.
He urged the Afghanistan academic figures abroad to return to the country.
“We should make our society a place where the education is provided and everyone plays their role in the economic, political, reconstruction and trade of the country,” Stanekzai said.
Kelly T. Clements, Deputy High Commissioner of UNHCR, praised the Afghan girls for their courage in seeking a brighter life.
“I am leaving with great hope. I have to say the women here are incredibly… they talked about the education, they talked about the need for livelihoods,” she said.
Meanwhile, some students said that the closure of schools has affected their motivation and morale.
“When we see the situation is being continued with such difficulties, we can’t have a hope for education,” said Yaman, a student.
“The schools above grade six are closed for all girls, this has an impact on the motivation of girls,” said Beheshta Nasiri, a student.