UNICEF reaches 6.3 million Afghan children amid education restrictions for girls

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) announced that last year it provided essential educational materials to 6.3 million children across Afghanistan, despite significant restrictions on girls’ education imposed by the Taliban government. Roshan Morteza, UNICEF's deputy representative in Afghanistan, shared on the X social network that UNICEF remains dedicated to supporting education for all Afghan children and is currently implementing the largest educational supplies program in the country.

UNICEF’s efforts come amid a difficult climate for education, especially for Afghan girls. Since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, the group has barred girls from secondary and higher education, cutting off access for 1.4 million girls beyond sixth grade, according to UNICEF statistics.

The organization's commitment to education has become critical as millions of Afghan children, especially girls, are at risk of losing access to basic learning opportunities. UNICEF’s programs are helping bridge this gap by distributing educational resources and advocating for inclusive access, but challenges remain as restrictions continue for girls across Afghanistan. UNICEF has not indicated whether these efforts include secondary education for girls, where access is most limited.