Kabul's Religious Schools: A Mixed Blessing

In Kabul's streets, a significant shift is taking place. Boys in traditional dress are increasingly attending madrassas, religious schools that are gaining popularity as public schools face challenges.

The Rise of Madrassas

These institutions offer structure and education rooted in Islamic teachings. One school outside Kabul has seen its student count jump from 35 to over 160 in just five years. While most madrassas focus on the Quran, some are beginning to incorporate basic subjects like math and English.

However, many of these schools do not meet national or international education standards, which could impact students' futures.

Challenges for Girls

Girls face even greater hurdles. With higher education banned for them, madrassas are one of the few places they can continue learning, though opportunities remain limited. Critics argue that these schools often promote religious ideas heavily, which could shape Afghanistan's future in significant ways. For many kids, though, madrassas are their only shot at education.

Public Schools in Crisis

The public school system is grappling with big problems: a shortage of teachers, scarce resources, and the toll of years of conflict. This has driven more families toward madrassas. But while these religious schools fill a gap, they also raise questions about the kind of education Afghan children are really getting.