Taliban Administration Bars Beardless Students at Faryab University from Thesis Defense

In a continuation of newly imposed restrictions on educational environments, the Taliban administration at Faryab University has warned students that those without beards will not be permitted to defend their theses and will also be barred from participating in graduation ceremonies.

Sources on Wednesday, July 22, confirmed to 8am newspaper that this directive was issued by the university’s “Invitation and Guidance Committee” to the students. According to these sources, it has been emphasized that students’ appearances will be reviewed before their defense sessions.

According to the released document, students who have trimmed their beards with a razor or shaved them entirely are not allowed to defend their theses. This decision comes while the thesis defense marks the final stage in the undergraduate academic process, and being barred from it could lead to delays or uncertainty in students’ graduation.

Since the Taliban regained control, universities across the country have faced new regulations regarding student dress and conduct—rules that critics say interfere with personal privacy and further restrict the educational environment.