USAID cancels Scholarships Program for 208 Afghan women, leaving students’ futures in Limbo

USAID has suspended its scholarship program for 208 Afghan women, leaving their educational futures uncertain, Khaama Press reported. Announced on April 6, the decision was attributed to a review and misalignment with current agency priorities. Launched in 2018 with a $50 million investment, the program, managed by the American University of Afghanistan, supported women studying in STEM fields across Afghanistan, Qatar, and Oman.

One student, Zahra, expressed that the scholarship was a crucial opportunity amid the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education. An anonymous program official noted attempts to extend the program until 2030 but received no clear response from the US Department of State or USAID.

The abrupt termination of the program has raised concerns about international support for Afghan women’s education and sparked criticism from advocates who view it as a setback for women’s rights. Calls for more transparent communication from USAID regarding future support for Afghan women in education are growing.