Afghanistan’s University Entrance Exams: A Third Consecutive Year Without Girls – What It Means for Future Generations | Amu TV

Afghanistan’s university entrance exam, called the Kankor, wrapped up this week, but once again, female students were denied participation. This marks the third year in a row that girls have been barred from public education under Taliban rule.

The exam, administered by the Taliban-run National Examination Authority, unfolded in five phases across the country. Since they took power in August 2021, girls have not been allowed to take the exam, a policy that continues to deepen the exclusion of women.

As the last phase finished—coinciding with “World Hope Day”—tens of thousands of Afghan girls faced disappointment, their dreams of higher education halted once more. The Kankor took place in several provinces, with the fourth phase occurring in Kabul. Girls were excluded from every segment.

Sofia, a hopeful high school graduate, shared her frustration: “I studied with hopes and dreams. Now, I can only watch others take the exam. I wish for the doors to open again.” Three years have gone by as she waits for a chance at university.

Zarghona, who has completed her medical studies, voiced her disappointment too. “I’ve traveled far to learn, but now I can’t take the exit exam needed to practice,” she said. “This country needs fair laws. While boys take their exams, girls are left out.”

Participation numbers for this year’s Kankor haven’t been disclosed by the Taliban, but earlier reports indicate that about 25,300 male students took the exam in the first phase alone, held across 11 provinces.

According to UNESCO, nearly 1.5 million girls have been cut off from education since the Taliban regained power. If these restrictions continue, it’s estimated that more than 4 million girls could be out of school in Afghanistan by 2030.

The situation has sparked outrage worldwide. On social media, many users are advocating for Afghan girls, sharing their stories and calling for action to support their education. The hashtag #LetHerLearn has gained traction, illustrating a collective desire for change.

In a historical context, this ongoing crisis draws parallels to the late 1990s when the Taliban previously ruled Afghanistan. Then, as now, girls were denied education, illustrating a troubling cycle. The fight for women’s education has long been contentious, but it remains crucial for Afghanistan’s future development.

As the global community watches, there are urgent calls for renewed efforts to advocate for the rights of Afghan girls and women. Movements pushing for educational access are more vital than ever, as education is the key to empowerment and progress. For further details on this ongoing issue, you can visit the [UNESCO report on girls’ education crisis](https://en.unesco.org/countries/afghanistan).

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