Rashid Khan hits out at Taliban for banning women from medical education

Afghan cricket team captain Rashid Khan has raised his voice against the Taliban government's decision to ban women from medical education.

After imposing several restrictions on women in Afghanistan, the Taliban government has now also banned them from pursuing medical education, prompting the Afghan Cricketer to raise his voice against the Draconian decision. Rashid has called the ban "regrettable" and has appealed to the government to reconsider. 

He issued a statement on Instagram, speaking out for  Afghan women.

He wrote, "Learning knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim man and woman. I am saddened and disappointed by the news about the closure of education and medical departments in front of the sisters. It's very painful to see pictures of sisters and mothers on social media and depression. Just as the foundation of a country's development begins with education, our sisters also have the right to educate and be able to serve their community in every field except the medical sector. I hope that this decision will be reviewed and our sisters will be provided with education according to the principles of the holy religion."

"Education holds a central place in Islamic teachings, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge for both men and women. The Quran highlights the importance of learning and acknowledges the equal spiritual worth of both genders. It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I reflect on the recent closures of educational and medical institutions for the sisters and mothers of Afghanistan. This decision has profoundly affected not only their future but also the broader fabric of our society. The pain and sorrow they express through social media serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles they face," he added.

The Cricketer wrote, "Afghanistan, our beloved homeland, stands at a critical juncture. The country desperately needs professionals in every field, especially in the medical sector. The acute shortage of female doctors and nurses is particularly concerning, as it directly impacts the healthcare and dignity of women. It is essential for our sisters and mothers to have access to care provided by medical professionals who truly understand their needs."

He further wrote, "I sincerely appeal for the reconsideration of this decision so that Afghan girls may reclaim their right to education and contribute to the nation's development. Providing education to all is not just a societal responsibility but a moral obligation deeply rooted in our faith and values."

Afghanistan, where many restrictions have been imposed on women after the Taliban government came to power, has now issued a new order banning women from pursuing health education in the country.