Cultural Barriers Against to Girls' education

 Written by: Muzamil Shah watandost
 
Women make up half of Afghan society, but in most rural areas, some customs cause girls’ illiteracy. This effect is felt not only inside the family but also outside the home. Many children are deprived of proper education due to their mothers' illiteracy. But what are the cultural barriers to girls' education? AEPO’s writer/producer has talked to some people about this issue.

Hamna Sidiqi, a resident of Konar province says, “My mother was not allowed to go to school and now she could not read or write. I have a problem with math and English and she cannot help me.”

Samira, a resident of Paktia province says, “I have not gone to school and I cannot read and write and I face many problems. If I want to go somewhere, I could not find the address. I cannot help my children in school lessons.”

What do some people think about the cultural barriers to female education?

Ihsan a teacher of one of the private schools in Kabul city says, “Some parents prevent their daughters from going to school. We had a fifth-grader who was very smart. She was absent for a few days. When I raised the issue with the school administration, they contacted her family. The student's mother said that 5 years of learning was enough for her daughter.”

Khatera Sharifi, a resident of the Qarabgh district of Kabul province says, “The main cause of illiteracy is the lack of knowledge about science and religion. When parents are unaware of Islam and the rules of Islam, they do not allow their daughters to go to school."

How do some people find a solution to this problem?

Jamila, a resident of the Qarabagh district says, "My brothers-in-law were against my education, but my husband stood by me and told me not to say anything in front of them. My husband talked to them separately and convinced them. Later, I hired my one brother-in-law in the hospital and another in my school. Now they are good defenders of women wright for working.”

Maryam says, “My father helps me with English and maths, and my brother only helps me with English. My father tells me to study hard to become a doctor to serve the people and the country. Recognizing right and wrong is one of the benefits of education.”