Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, the biggest names in Afghan cricket, have spoken out strongly against the Taliban's reported closure of women's nursing and midwifery institutes.
The closures are a new setback for women's rights in Afghanistan since the Taliban came to power in August 2021. The Taliban have banned secondary and higher education for girls and women, although there have been exceptions in the medical field. Since girls and women are also excluded from participating in sports, Afghanistan's status as a full member of the ICC is increasingly coming under criticism.
“Education occupies a central place in Islamic teachings and emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge for both men and women,” Rashid wrote in an Instagram Story. “The Quran emphasizes the importance of learning and recognizes the equal spiritual value of both genders.
“It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I reflect on the recent closure of educational and medical facilities for the sisters and mothers of Afghanistan. This decision has profoundly affected not only their future, but also the entire fabric of our society. The pain and grief.” They speak out on social media, serving as a poignant reminder of the struggles they face.
“Afghanistan, our beloved homeland, is at a critical juncture. The country urgently needs skilled workers in all areas, especially in the medical field. The acute shortage of female doctors and nurses is particularly worrying as it directly impacts healthcare and the dignity of women.” It is important for our sisters and mothers to have access to healthcare that truly understands their needs.
“I sincerely appeal to reconsider this decision so that Afghan girls can reclaim their right to education and contribute to the country's development. Providing education for all is not only a social responsibility, but a moral obligation that is deeply rooted in our faith and values.”
In a post on Facebook, Nabi echoed Rashid's views.
“It is really unfortunate that the current government has also banned the training of girls in medical fields,” he wrote in Pashto. “First girls were denied access to universities, and now their last opportunity to build a future in the medical field has been taken away. This decision not only harms the future of these girls, but also impacts the entire country and nation. A country can only make progress if all citizens have the right to education and no part of society is disadvantaged.
“Unfortunately, the girls who were trained to become doctors to serve their communities are now having their hopes and dreams taken away. I condemn this unjust decision and at the same time respectfully and humbly call on the government to seriously reconsider this decision. Afghanistan needs education.” Please reverse this decision and let our girls study!”
Rahmanullah Gurbaz also made a post on Facebook expressing his support for women's education.