Three prominent players of Afghanistan’s national cricket team, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Nabi, have raised their voices against the Taliban’s decision to shut down women’s medical educational institutions in Afghanistan. They have urged the Taliban leader to reverse this decision.
These players emphasized the importance of women’s access to education on their social media accounts, calling the Taliban’s move detrimental to the country’s future.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz wrote in his message:
“Education is the right of every Afghan. Women constitute half of society and need education for progress.”
Rashid Khan expressed his concerns, stating:
“The news of shutting down educational and medical fields for our sisters in our beloved country has saddened and disappointed me. Seeing images of our sisters and mothers in distress on social media is deeply painful.
The foundation of any nation’s development starts with education. Similarly, our sisters have the right to study and contribute to society, not just in medical fields but in all areas. I hope this decision will be reconsidered, and opportunities for education are provided to our sisters in accordance with the principles of Islam.”
Mohammad Nabi highlighted the value of women’s education, stating:
“Women are the builders of society, and granting them the right to education is our national and Islamic responsibility. The Taliban’s decision to prohibit girls from studying medicine is not only disappointing but also unjust. Islam has always emphasized the importance of education for all, and history is filled with examples of Muslim women who have served generations through their knowledge.
I urge the Taliban to reflect on these values. Denying girls the opportunity for education and service to their people is a betrayal of their aspirations and our nation’s future. Let our daughters learn, grow, and build a better Afghanistan for everyone. This is their right, and it is our responsibility to protect this right.”
The cricketers’ statements come amid widespread domestic and international condemnation of the Taliban’s decision. Global organizations and human rights groups have also called on the Taliban to allow women access to education and reverse their decision.
It is worth noting that Afghanistan’s national cricket team enjoys immense popularity among Afghans, and these players’ stance has been warmly welcomed by the public.
