Taliban Administration Bans Teacher’s Day Celebrations in Herat
The Taliban’s Department of Education in Herat city has issued an official directive prohibiting both public and private schools in the province from holding ceremonies to celebrate “Teacher’s Day.” This decision was made just one day before the annual World Teachers’ Day, observed every year on October 5.
The text of the directive, circulated by the General Directorate of Education in Herat, explicitly states: “No celebrations in the name of Teacher’s Day shall be held in schools.” It also bans the collection of any money from students or teachers under the pretext of Teacher’s Day ceremonies, warning that school principals will be held responsible in case of non-compliance.
World Teachers’ Day is observed in many countries worldwide to honor the significant role of teachers in education systems. However, in recent years, the Taliban administration has faced widespread domestic and international criticism for restricting such commemorations.
The ban on honoring teachers, along with other extensive restrictions in the education sector—such as the continued closure of schools for girls—raises serious questions about the future of education in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. This decision is the latest example of the administration’s stringent policies toward educational institutions.
