KABUL (SW) – Waheed Omer, director general, Office of Public and Strategic Affairs, has reacted sharply against the proposed curbs on school girls singing poems in public gatherings.
He said no individual or body has the right to set limits on individuals in the country in violation of the constitution. Waheed Omer said he was in contact with the Ministry of Education to clarify its stance on this matter.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has clarified it is committed to supporting the right to education and the right of all male and female students to participate in cultural, artistic and sports programs. It said the letter recently issued by the director of education in Kabul does not reflect the official position and policy of the Ministry of Education.
The Ministry of Education said it was investigating the matter and will share the results after completing the review process. If necessary, the Ministry of Education will also resort to disciplinary action.
On Thursday, the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC) warned the education ministry against infringing on children’s rights to freedom and artistic skills.
A day earlier, the director of education in Kabul issued a statement banning girls over the age of 12 from attending and singing in gatherings that are also attended by men. The letter stated that female students can perform songs and anthems only in gatherings attended only by women and girls.
ENDS
