Dare to Educate Afghan Girls | Shabana Basij-Rasikh | TED Talks

TL;DR

This content tells the story of a woman's journey to education in Afghanistan amidst the challenges posed by the Taliban regime.

Transcript

Translator: Joseph Geni Reviewer: Morton Bast When I was 11, I remember waking up one morning to the sound of joy in my house. My father was listening to BBC News on his small, gray radio. There was a big smile on his face which was unusual then, because the news mostly depressed him. "The Taliban are gone!" my father shouted. I didn't know what it... Read More

Key Insights

• 💪 The Taliban rule in Afghanistan prohibited girls from going to school, forcing the speaker and her sister to dress as boys to attend a secret school.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the Taliban rule in Afghanistan impact education for girls?

The Taliban rule in Afghanistan made it illegal for girls to go to school, depriving them of their right to education. This forced girls like the speaker to disguise themselves as boys and attend secret schools, risking their lives in the process.

Q: How did the speaker's family prioritize education despite the risks?

The speaker's family believed in the importance of education, especially for their daughters. Despite the dangers posed by the Taliban, they were determined to educate their children. They were even willing to sell their blood to pay for school fees, highlighting their unwavering commitment.

Q: What role did the speaker's grandfather play in promoting education?

The speaker's grandfather defied societal norms and insisted that his daughter, the speaker's mother, receive an education. This decision led to his disownment by his own father. However, his actions paved the way for the speaker's education and inspired her family's dedication to education.

Q: How has the speaker's educational journey influenced her advocacy work?

The speaker's educational journey, which included becoming a graduate of Middlebury College, has motivated her to become a global ambassador for the education of women. She co-founded SOLA, the first boarding school for girls in Afghanistan, aiming to provide opportunities for girls to receive an education, even in a risky environment.

Q: What role do fathers play in promoting education for girls in Afghanistan?

In the context of Afghan society, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fathers in supporting their daughters' education. While mothers also play a significant role, fathers are often the ones who recognize the value of their daughters and understand that their success is interconnected with their daughters' success. Their support is crucial for girls to overcome societal barriers.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker recounts her experience growing up in Afghanistan during the Taliban rule and the challenges she faced in obtaining an education.

• She emphasizes the importance of her family's support and belief in her education, despite the risks and opposition.

• The speaker discusses her work as a global ambassador and co-founder of SOLA, a boarding school for girls in Afghanistan, and highlights the promising future and lasting change she sees in the country.