On the occasion of International Day of Women in Science, UN Special Representative for Afghanistan Roza Otunbayeva on Sunday emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls in science to tackle both national and global challenges.

“Empowering women and girls in science in Afghanistan unlocks half of the nation’s potential to address pressing challenges like climate resilience and sustainable development,” Otunbayeva said. “We must push for this empowerment today, and every day.”

Secondary school and university education is suspended for girls in Afghanistan by the Islamic Emirate.

UNESCO has also stressed the importance of participation of women in science, “breaking stereotypes and challenging biases.”

“Let’s embrace diversity and empower women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for a brighter, more inclusive future!” it said.

The Islamic Emirate says that efforts are being made to provide opportunities for knowledge acquisition for all regardless of gender.

“International day of science is important for both women and men. Science is a part of today’s life, and at the right time, efforts will be made to provide everyone with the opportunity to acquire knowledge. If the suitable conditions are created, Allah willing, it will be resolved,” said Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Islamic Emirate.

The US Embassy Kabul also said on X that Afghan women and girls need to be recognized for being just as capable as anyone in science if given a chance.

“Empowering women and girls in science contributes to a brighter future for Afghanistan,” the embassy, which is based in Doha, said.