Afghanistan Faces Severe Shortage of Kindergartens Amid Population of Over 35 Million
In a recent article, Hasht-e-Subh Daily reported that Afghanistan currently has only 170 public and private kindergartens serving 6,177 children, citing the Taliban’s National Statistics and Information Authority. This figure is alarmingly low given the country’s estimated population of 35.7 million, with nearly equal numbers of men and women.
The report covering June to September 2024 reveals that these kindergartens enroll 3,337 boys and 2,840 girls. Additionally, 38 private kindergartens and nurseries accommodate 1,860 children, employing 80 teachers. In public kindergartens, 1,090 teachers work, with many facilities located at parents’ workplaces.
Despite a 28.6 percent increase in kindergarten numbers compared to the previous year, experts warn the shortage remains critical. Psychologist Rizwana Rahimi emphasized that early childhood education is vital for social, cognitive, and psychological development. She noted that absence of kindergartens can cause developmental delays, reduced self-confidence, and behavioral problems in children.
Many families face barriers to kindergarten enrollment due to poverty, unemployment, security concerns, and Taliban-imposed restrictions. Some parents also fear ideological indoctrination and high costs, preventing children from attending.
International organizations such as UNICEF, UNESCO, and the World Bank have repeatedly highlighted Afghanistan’s pre-primary education crisis. UNICEF reports only five percent of children of pre-primary age have access to early education, one of the lowest rates globally. UNESCO stresses early education as crucial for reducing educational inequality, while the World Bank underscores its economic benefits, estimating a sevenfold return on investment.
With millions of Afghan children missing critical early learning opportunities, experts urge increased investment and policy focus on expanding and improving kindergarten access to safeguard the nation’s future.
