The Afghan Times is proud to announce the launch of a new category, “Open Skies, Closed Doors,” dedicated to bringing attention to the education crisis in Afghanistan. With a focus on the struggles of Afghan children, particularly girls, this initiative seeks to shed light on the reality of learning in a country where access to education is severely restricted and the lack of school buildings forces many students to study in the open air.
The launch of “Open Skies, Closed Doors” comes at a critical time for Afghanistan, where the education system has been deeply affected by ongoing political instability and economic hardship. With millions of children out of school and girls barred from education beyond the sixth grade, this category will tell the real stories of those who continue to pursue knowledge despite the many obstacles in their path.
A Platform for Unheard Voices
Salma Niazi, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Afghan Times, explained the significance of this new initiative:
“Education is not just about books and classrooms—it’s about hope, opportunity, and the future of a nation. By creating ‘Open Skies, Closed Doors,’ we are giving a voice to the children and families who refuse to give up on education, even when the odds are against them. Their stories are stories of resilience and courage, and they deserve to be heard.”
Niazi highlighted the need for a platform that not only brings attention to the challenges but also celebrates the determination of Afghan students and teachers.
“Under the Taliban’s restrictions, education has become an act of defiance. Girls, in particular, are taking great risks to learn, and we want to document their bravery. We want the world to know that despite everything, these children are not giving up.”
Stories from the Ground, Told by Women Journalists
The new category will feature stories gathered by a team of Afghan women journalists who are working inside the country. These journalists, often facing personal risks themselves, are committed to uncovering the reality of the education crisis. From makeshift classrooms in rural areas to secret schools operating in the shadows, they will tell the stories of those fighting for the right to learn.
One member of the reporting team, who remains anonymous for safety reasons, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
“Many of the stories we cover are heartbreaking, but they are also full of hope. We are determined to show the world what Afghan children are going through. We want our readers to understand that learning is not something we can take for granted—it is a daily struggle for survival here.”
Shining a Light on Unseen Struggles
In rural areas of Afghanistan, the shortage of school buildings means that children often study under the open sky. Without proper facilities, thousands of students learn in fields, under trees, or in any space they can find. In winter, they brave the biting cold; in summer, they endure the scorching heat. The Afghan Times aims to bring these stories to a global audience through powerful journalism that captures both the challenges and the spirit of those who refuse to give up on education.
“The lack of school buildings is a huge problem,” Salma Niazi said. “Children are attending classes without roofs, without desks, and often without textbooks. Yet, they keep coming. ‘Open Skies, Closed Doors’ is about highlighting this reality—the strength of the Afghan spirit in the face of adversity.”
Inspiring Change and Support
Through The Afghan Times’ new initiative, the goal is not just to raise awareness but also to inspire action. The stories published under this category will not only document the struggles but also serve as a call to the international community to support Afghan education. This may include advocacy for policy changes, donations, and educational programs aimed at helping children continue their studies, even under the most difficult conditions.
Niazi concluded, “We hope that ‘Open Skies, Closed Doors’ will not only inform but also move people to stand with Afghan children. These are stories that the world needs to hear, and we are committed to telling them.”
“Open Skies, Closed Doors”—A New Beginning
The Afghan Times invites readers to follow the stories featured in this new category and to join in supporting the right to education for all Afghan children. As the first articles roll out, readers can expect a mixture of personal narratives, on-the-ground reporting, and in-depth analysis of the barriers that continue to limit access to learning in Afghanistan.
We welcome partners who are interested in supporting this initiative. For inquiries, please contact us at: Info@theafghantimes.com.
