Blocking of girls’ schools; The United States has expressed hope that the Taliban will change its mind

The US Special Representative for Afghanistan has expressed hope that in the coming days the Taliban will reverse their decision to continue blocking girls’ schools.

“I hope we will see a change in this decision in the coming days,” said Thomas West, the US special envoy for Afghanistan at the Doha Association yesterday.

West said the Taliban had promised the Afghan people and the international community that all girls ‘and boys’ schools would reopen in the new school year, but failed to do so.

The Taliban Ministry of Education announced four days ago that girls’ schools will continue to be closed by the ministry for students above grades six.

The Taliban’s decision provoked strong reactions, with dozens of female students, teachers and activists in Kabul protesting, calling on the Taliban to open the gates of all schools to girls.

International organizations also issued statements announcing their reaction to the Taliban decision.