Four years after Kabul school bombing, Hazara students still under threat

Four years have passed since the devastating bombing of Sayyed al-Shuhada School in Kabul’s predominantly Hazara neighborhood of Dasht-e-Barchi. The coordinated explosions on May 8, 2021, targeted schoolgirls as they were leaving for the day, killing at least 85 people and injuring more than 150 others. The attack was one of the deadliest against civilians in Afghanistan in recent years and drew strong international condemnation.

Since then, violence against Hazara and Shi’a students has continued. Educational centers such as Kaj and Kawsar Danish have suffered similar attacks, causing hundreds of casualties. Analysts believe Hazara girls are being targeted for their educational achievements, especially during the former republic era, when many earned top scores in university entrance exams.

The situation has worsened since the Taliban returned to power. Reports of suspected mass poisonings have emerged from provinces like Daykundi, where dozens of girls were hospitalized after falling ill at school. No perpetrators have been identified, fueling concerns over the safety of minority students and the lack of accountability.

Despite these challenges, Hazara students—particularly young women—remain committed to learning. Their continued attendance in schools and educational centers stands as a symbol of resistance against discrimination and ongoing violence.