Roya Mahboob, an Afghan entrepreneur and technology innovator, is spearheading an initiative to provide education to Afghan girls who are unable to attend school due to the Taliban’s restrictions. The program includes the development of offline apps, underground networks, and collaboration with a global robotics team to ensure continuity in education. Mahboob revealed the details of the initiative during her speech at the Doha Forum in Qatar in 2022, where she emphasized the importance of encrypted channels, local partnerships, and small community networks of women in sustaining these efforts.
The initiative highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Afghan girls in accessing quality education under the current circumstances. Mahboob’s approach focuses on leveraging technology and community-based strategies to overcome the limitations imposed by the Taliban’s policies. By creating a network of local partners and using encrypted communication methods, the program aims to maintain educational outreach in a secure and discreet manner. This effort not only addresses the immediate need for learning opportunities but also supports long-term development and empowerment of Afghan women.
Mahboob’s initiative underscores the resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. Despite the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education, the program demonstrates a commitment to finding solutions that ensure educational access. The use of technology and local partnerships highlights the importance of community-driven strategies in overcoming systemic barriers. As the situation in Afghanistan continues to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in preserving educational opportunities for girls and promoting their empowerment, even in the most challenging circumstances.