Taliban Bars Beardless Students from University Dorms in Herat and Bamyan
Dozens of students at public universities in Afghanistan’s Herat and Bamyan provinces have been denied basic educational and welfare services for failing to comply with strict appearance rules imposed by the Taliban. Sources confirmed that around 50 students at Herat University had their dormitory access cards confiscated for trimming or not growing beards, and face possible expulsion from student housing.
According to a university staff member, the Taliban authorities have stipulated that students without beards or traditional caps will not receive dormitory meals. This policy has added a significant burden on students who cannot afford off-campus living expenses.
Students have also reported that Taliban’s ‘Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice’ forces have entered classrooms and removed individuals solely for not having beards. Moreover, the Taliban requires students to attend daily one-hour religious propaganda sessions led by a group named ‘Da’wat wa Irshad’ (Call and Guidance).
Similar incidents have been reported at Bamyan University. A local source there confirmed that meal allowances for several students were suspended by Taliban administrators simply because they did not have beards. Some of these students are reportedly unable to grow beards naturally, leading to significant challenges in their education and daily lives.
The Taliban have made having beards and wearing caps mandatory for male students across all universities under their control. These restrictions have also extended to schools. Additionally, they have revised academic curricula to prioritize religious instruction, raising concerns about the elimination of scientific education and academic freedom in the country.
