1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites

In Afghanistan, girls study in secret to skirt Taliban ban

02:16

This browser does not support the video element.

Fereshta Shir
August 15, 2026

Afghan student Maryam studies online even though girls are barred from education beyond sixth grade. She also teaches girls English while calling for rights, scholarships and support.

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.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW