Kabul: UNICEF on Saturday urged the interim Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan to lift the ban on girls' secondary education as the new school year begins without girls for a third consecutive year.

According to Anadolu Agency, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized that "Afghanistan cannot leave half of its population behind," as she called for the immediate return of girls to school. She stressed that denying education to capable young girls in Afghanistan would have repercussions lasting generations.

As the new school term in Afghanistan begins without girls beyond sixth grade, the director highlighted that the continuation of this ban could result in over 4 million girls being deprived of education beyond primary school by 2030. This ban adversely affects the nation's health system, economy, and future prospects, increasing the risk of child marriage and negatively impacting girls' well-being and health.

The statement further noted that without educating women in healthcare, girls and women would not receive the necessary medical treatment and support, potentially leading to an additional 1,600 maternal and over 3,500 infant deaths. Despite the ban, UNICEF has managed to provide access to education for 445,000 children through community-based learning, with 64% of them being girls.

UNICEF urged the de facto authorities to lift the ban immediately, stating that education is not only a fundamental right but also a pathway to a healthier, more stable, and prosperous society. The ban has been in place since August 2021, following the Taliban's return to power after the collapse of the US-backed Kabul administration and the withdrawal of foreign forces.