In this episode of Open Mic, Zuhal Faizi talks about her struggles as an Afghan girl fighting for her right to education. She shares her dreams, the pain of seeing them shattered by repeated bans on girls’ education, and the recent decision to close midwifery institutes, barring women from studying there.
Listen now:
“I am Zuhal Faizi, one of the Afghan girls. Girls who have been neglected and overlooked many times. Just like other girls, I also had many dreams,” Zuhal begins her story.
Her dreams were simple yet powerful—education, freedom, and a future filled with possibilities. But when the gates of schools and universities were closed, those dreams felt impossible to reach.
“I lost my hope,” she recalls. For months, there was no sign of change. Then, a flicker of hope returned. “I heard the news that girls could continue their education in the health department. My hope and dreams came alive again.”
With her family’s support, Zuhal joined an institute in the fall semester. “I’m so grateful to my family because they supported me in every decision and made the conditions favorable for me to continue my education.”
Still, challenges loomed. Every day brought uncertainty.
“Our first and biggest fear was that the gates of institutes would be blocked again,”
Zuhal
The economy also became a barrier. “Many girls could not continue their education because all of these institutes were private.” she says.
Despite the odds, Zuhal excelled. “In the previous semesters, I had a lot of success and was able to pass my exams with higher grades.” But heartbreak struck again. “At the end of the third semester, the news spread that girls are not allowed to continue their studies in this department. It is very difficult and frustrating. Our dreams and goals are disappearing one by one.”
Yet, she refuses to give up. “We will not stop trying. There are other opportunities, like online universities and courses.”
Her message to the world is clear: “The only thing I want from the Islamic Emirate is that the gates of universities and schools be opened as soon as possible. I hope for the day that all Afghan girls can study without stress or fear. We wish for a successful Afghanistan, far from ignorance.”
On December 3rd, during a meeting, the nursing and midwifery institute directors were informed that women and girls are no longer permitted to study at their institutions. No details or justifications were given.
