The Taliban government in Afghanistan has removed books written by women from university libraries. Consequently, these books will no longer be part of the teaching curriculum under the new education rules.

Women’s Books Removed

Officials removed around 140 books authored by women, including “Safety in the Chemical Laboratory”. These were among 680 texts flagged for being against “Sharia and Taliban policies.”

In addition, the government suspended 18 subjects from university syllabi, stating that they “conflict with the principles of Sharia and the system’s policy.”

Targeting Women’s Education

The new rules have especially affected women and girls. They cannot study beyond the sixth grade. Moreover, in late 2024, midwifery courses, one of the few remaining training paths, were quietly closed.

Furthermore, the Taliban targeted women-focused university courses. Six of the 18 suspended subjects relate to women, including Gender and Development, The Role of Women in Communication, and Women’s Sociology.

Ziaur Rahman Aryubi, Deputy Academic Director at the Taliban’s Ministry of Higher Education, explained that the decisions came from a panel of “religious scholars and experts.”

Expanded Internet Crackdown

Meanwhile, the Taliban intensified internet restrictions. Officials cut fibre optic connections in several provinces, claiming it was part of a campaign against “vice.”

The order came from Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. As a result, high-speed internet shut down in several regions over two days, leaving tens of thousands without access.

In Balkh province, fibre optic internet was fully blocked. Provincial spokesman Attaullah Zaid said on X, “This measure was taken to prevent vice, and alternative options will be put in place across the country to meet connectivity needs.”

Impact and Implications

Overall, the Taliban’s actions have restricted education and access to information. Women’s participation in universities has declined further. In addition, internet restrictions prevent students, professionals, and citizens from accessing online resources.

Consequently, these measures have drawn international criticism. They underscore the shrinking opportunities for women and the growing control over knowledge and communication under the Taliban regime.