Time Magazine Includes Shabana Basij-Rasikh in Its Emerging Global Figures List
Time magazine has included Shabana Basij-Rasikh in its annual “Time 100 Next” list, which highlights emerging and influential figures and leaders around the world. The selection was made in recognition of her efforts to support the education of Afghan girls and has sparked widespread attention on social media.
Civil society activists have described the choice as a sign that hope remains alive for the reopening of schools and universities to Afghan girls. Basij-Rasikh heads the Sola Educational Foundation (SOLA), an institution created to provide educational opportunities for Afghan girls and which, following recent political developments, has sought to create alternative pathways to learning.
Since the Taliban administration came to power, girls above sixth grade have been barred from schooling, and the doors of higher education have also been closed to women. Regional experts say these restrictions weaken Afghanistan’s human capital and stand in the way of economic development and social stability.
Restrictions on girls’ education have been a focus of domestic protests and regional demands. At regional meetings, including the Islamabad International Conference, emphasis has been placed on reviewing education policies, providing a balanced scientific and religious education framework, and preventing half of Afghan society from being deprived.
