A number of girls in Bamyan Province who have been deprived of continuing their education say that since schools were closed to girls, they have turned to activities such as sewing, painting, and handicrafts to cope with emotional distress and pass the long days spent at home.
The girls say that learning practical skills has helped them navigate some of their most difficult days with greater hope. However, they emphasize that no craft or skill can replace education, school, or the academic aspirations they once held.
According to the students, before they were barred from attending school, they went to class each day with enthusiasm, prepared for exams, and planned for their futures. Many dreamed of becoming doctors, engineers, teachers, journalists, or contributing to society in other professional fields. But with the closure of schools, they say, the course of their lives changed dramatically.
One girl from Bamyan says that after she was no longer allowed to attend school, she went through an extremely difficult period. She explains that being separated from the educational environment left her feeling isolated and emotionally overwhelmed, prompting her to take up painting as a way to cope.
“When the schools were closed, I felt as though every path had been shut off for us,” she says. “To cope with the situation, I started painting. It brings me peace, but nothing can replace the classroom, my teachers, or my education.”
Other girls say that after being denied access to education, they have tried to preserve their sense of hope by learning new skills. Many have enrolled in sewing, handicraft, and other vocational or artistic courses, both to occupy their time and, where possible, to support their families by selling the products they create.
Another girl says, “Learning practical skills is valuable to us, but our primary goal has always been education. We wanted to study and contribute to our society. Sewing and handicrafts can never replace school.”
Social activists and a number of families in Bamyan also say that denying girls access to education is not merely an educational issue, but one that has profoundly affected their mental well-being, self-confidence, and future prospects. According to them, many girls have experienced feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and uncertainty about the future since schools were closed.
Despite these challenges, many of the girls say they are determined not to lose hope. By learning a variety of skills, they are striving to preserve their abilities and remain productive. Nevertheless, they stress that their greatest wish is to return to the classroom and continue their education.
The girls emphasize that education remains the most important pathway to a better future and that no other activity can compensate for the educational opportunities they have lost.
They also call on the international community and relevant institutions to intensify efforts to ensure girls can return to school and to prevent an entire generation of Afghan girls from being deprived of their fundamental right to education, knowledge, and future opportunities.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
