In Afghanistan, girls study in secret to skirt Taliban ban

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Fereshta Shir
August 15, 2026Advertisement
Five years after the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan, student Maryam says fear and restrictions continue to shape daily life.
With women barred from education beyond sixth grade, she secretly studies online and teaches English to other girls.
She says many Afghans stay silent because speaking out can bring punishment.
Despite losing hope that the Taliban will reverse its policies, Maryam remains determined to learn and has called on the international community to support Afghan girls through scholarships, online courses and educational opportunities.