Roya Mahboob Launches Secret Tech Initiative to Educate Afghan Girls
Roya Mahboob, an Afghan entrepreneur and former director of the Afghanistan National Development Strategy, is spearheading a covert technological initiative aimed at educating girls in Afghanistan who are denied access to formal schooling under the Taliban’s current rule. With the Taliban’s strict policies limiting girls’ access to education, Mahboob is leveraging technology to provide alternative learning opportunities.
At the Doha Forum in Qatar in 2022, Mahboob addressed the challenges faced by Afghan girls and outlined her organization’s approach. She emphasized the use of encrypted communication channels, local partnerships, and small networks of women to sustain educational efforts. These strategies allow for the discreet distribution of educational content and the protection of both students and instructors from potential surveillance or repercussions.
Her initiative includes the development of offline apps and the establishment of a global robotics team to enhance the quality and reach of the educational programs. By combining technology with grassroots efforts, Mahboob aims to create a sustainable model for educating Afghan girls despite the restrictions imposed by the Taliban. This grassroots approach reflects broader global efforts to support education for children in conflict zones and under oppressive regimes.
As the situation in Afghanistan continues to evolve, Mahboob’s initiative serves as a beacon of hope for many girls seeking knowledge and empowerment. Her work underscores the resilience of educational efforts in the face of political and social challenges, offering a glimpse into the potential of technology to bridge the gap in access to education for marginalized groups.