july/2025

The Importance of English for Afghan Women: Education, Empowerment, and Opportunity

1. Why English Matters for Afghan Women

English is one of the most spoken and influential languages in the world. For Afghan women, English represents far more than communication—it is a vital tool for survival, self-expression,

and transformation. In a country where women’s rights have been severely restricted, learning English opens pathways to education, financial independence, and global solidarity. As Afghanistan faces political uncertainty, the role of English in empowering women has become even more significant. Afghan women who speak English can access online learning, apply for international scholarships, work remotely, and advocate for their rights on global platforms. This article explores how learning English can change the lives of Afghan women and why it is essential to support language education in Afghanistan.

2. Historical Background: Women’s Education in Afghanistan

Historically, women’s access to education in Afghanistan has fluctuated. In the 1960s and 70s, urban Afghan women enjoyed relative freedom, pursuing education and employment. However, decades of war and Taliban rule drastically reversed these gains. From 1996 to 2001, the Taliban banned girls from schools entirely.
Post-2001, education for Afghan girls made a comeback. Millions of girls enrolled in schools, and thousands of women joined universities. However, the Taliban’s return in 2021 reintroduced severe restrictions, especially banning girls from secondary and higher education. In this hostile environment, English language learning provides a window to the world. With online platforms and mobile apps, Afghan women can study from home and remain connected to global knowledge despite domestic bans.

3. How English Empowers Afghan Women

a) Access to International Education

English is the gateway to scholarships and study opportunities abroad. Most global universities require applicants to pass English proficiency exams such as IELTS or TOEFL. Afghan women who speak English can:
● Apply for international scholarships
● Attend virtual university classes
● Connect with professors and peers globally
Through English, women can escape educational restrictions and continue learning.

b) Economic Opportunities and Financial Freedom

English increases employability for Afghan women. Proficiency in English opens doors to:
● Jobs with international organizations (e.g., UN, NGOs)
● Freelance work such as translation, writing, tutoring
● Online entrepreneurship and business support roles
Financial independence empowers Afghan women to support their families and gain freedom from traditional limitations.

c) Challenging Gender Norms Through Language

English brings exposure to global ideas about gender equality. Afghan women who understand English can read international literature, watch documentaries, and engage with global feminist movements. This shapes their views and inspires them to:
● Demand their rights
● Educate others
● Push for cultural transformation

4. English and Digital Empowerment

a) Online Learning and Distance Education

With internet access expanding, many Afghan women now turn to free English-language education platforms like:
● Coursera and edX – college-level courses from top universities
● Khan Academy – free academic lessons
● YouTube and educational apps – practical, self-paced learning These platforms help women continue their studies privately and securely.

b) Social Media for Voice and Visibility

Social media empowers Afghan women to tell their stories. Through English-language platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, they:
● Share experiences
● Build solidarity with global audiences
● Advocate for girls’ education (#LetAfghanGirlsLearn)

Speaking English allows Afghan women to participate in international conversations and make their voices heard.

5. English for Advocacy and Global Leadership

a) Women’s Rights and Political Participation

Many Afghan women activists use English to engage with the international community. They:
● Write articles
● Submit human rights reports
● Speak at United Nations meetings
Fluency in English helps them highlight issues such as:
● Gender-based violence
● Educational bans
● Discrimination in law and policy

b) Speaking at Global Platforms

English enables Afghan women to represent their communities at:
● Peace summits
● Global youth forums
● Academic conferences
Their presence reshapes perceptions and draws international attention to Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis.

6. Barriers to Learning English in Afghanistan

a) Cultural and Religious Limitations

Many conservative families view English as a threat to traditional values. Girls are often discouraged—or forbidden—from learning a “Western language,” fearing social stigma or backlash.

b) Lack of Educational Infrastructure

The number of quality English institutes in Afghanistan is very limited, especially in rural areas. Challenges include:
● Shortage of qualified teachers
● Inadequate internet and electricity
● Few English textbooks and learning materials

c) Insecurity and Threats to Female Learners

Under Taliban rule, attending English classes is dangerous. Secret schools are often raided, and learners face harassment. Women learning online often do so in isolation, hiding their devices or studying at night.

7. Inspiring Stories of Afghan Women and English Learning

Despite all challenges, many Afghan women have succeeded by using English as a tool for growth:
● Pashtana Durrani, founder of LEARN Afghanistan, promotes girls’ education through technology.
● Shabana Basij-Rasikh, co-founder of SOLA, safely relocated girls to Rwanda to continue their education.
● Thousands of Afghan women now work as English-language interpreters, writers, or teachers online, becoming breadwinners for their families.
These women show how English can empower even in crisis.

8. Promoting English Language Education in Afghanistan

a) Role of NGOs and Government Support

International NGOs and governments should invest in:
● Remote English courses
● Secret learning centers for girls
● Scholarships and exam prep for IELTS/TOEFL Organizations like British Council, UNESCO, and USAID play a crucial role in this work.

b) Local and Community Learning Models

Community-based programs can include:
● Women teaching English in safe homes
● Peer learning circles
● Village-based “micro schools” Such models adapt to cultural sensitivities and security issues.

c) Power of E-learning and Mobile Apps

Mobile applications like:
● Duolingo
● BBC Learning English
● Hello English
Make English accessible and engaging. These apps are user-friendly, often free, and ideal for isolated learners in Afghanistan.

9. Building a Brighter Future Through English

English is not just a language; for Afghan women, it is a tool of liberation. It connects them to education, financial freedom, global awareness, and advocacy. In a country where girls are banned from school, English is a secret weapon—helping them dream beyond borders.
To ensure a future where Afghan women can thrive, it is essential to:
● Support digital English learning platforms
● Fund scholarships and online education
● Promote awareness of the power of English
By investing in English education, we invest in the future of Afghan women—a future full of possibility, dignity, and hope.