UNICEF, UNESCO warn of deep learning crisis in Afghanistan

UN agencies UNICEF and UNESCO warned on World Education Day that Afghanistan faces a severe learning crisis affecting millions of children nationwide.

UNICEF and UNESCO said in a joint statement on Saturday, January 24, that 93% of children in Afghanistan cannot read adequately by the end of primary school.

The agencies also said 2.2 million adolescent girls remain out of school, deepening gender gaps and long-term risks for the country’s education system.

Preliminary findings from a 2025 study show students perform significantly better in schools where most teachers hold university degrees, particularly in language learning.

Soohyun Kim, UNESCO’s representative in Afghanistan, said denying girls access to education carries heavy social and economic costs for families and society.

Afghanistan’s education system has been under strain due to prolonged conflict, poverty, and limited resources, challenges that have intensified in recent years.

International organizations have repeatedly warned that restrictions on girls’ education risk creating a lost generation and weakening future economic development.

UNESCO and UNICEF said they remain committed to supporting a comprehensive approach to rebuilding education in Afghanistan despite ongoing restrictions and challenges.

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