Over 90% of 10-Year-Olds in Afghanistan Cannot Read, UNICEF Warns

UNICEF warns that more than 90 percent of 10-year-old children in Afghanistan cannot read a simple text, highlighting a deep educational crisis.

UNICEF said on Tuesday, January 27, that Afghanistan’s education system is at a critical point, with widespread illiteracy undermining basic learning for children.

The agency stated, “More than 90 percent of 10-year-olds cannot read a simple text, reflecting a crisis of schooling without learning.”

Since the Taliban regained power, Afghanistan’s education system has faced severe disruption, including school closures, lack of qualified teachers, and curriculum limitations.

UNICEF and UNESCO report that approximately 2.2 million adolescent girls have been denied access to school, worsening gender disparities and deepening the literacy gap.

UNICEF emphasized that continuous investment in early education, literacy, and numeracy is essential to ensure every child can succeed and escape generational illiteracy.

The organization warned that without urgent reforms, the crisis will continue, jeopardizing Afghanistan’s future workforce and social development.

Experts stress that international support, policy changes, and inclusive education for both boys and girls are critical to reversing the educational collapse in Afghanistan.

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