In this episode of Picking Up Where We Left Off, the focus is on the challenges surrounding higher education in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. The discussion features two previous Hollings Center program participants who left the country. Both are academics, now working to establish their careers abroad.

The guests reflect on the progress made in education before the Taliban’s takeover, particularly for women and marginalized groups. However, these gains have since been reversed, with female students and educators barred from universities, and a regime-backed exam offering degrees to Taliban members without qualifications. They describe the impact this has had on academic standards and the detrimental effect on educational and economic opportunities.

The conversation also highlights the personal toll on Afghan scholars. One, who was abroad during the crisis, continues work remotely to support Afghan academics in exile. The other recounts their difficult journey to escape Afghanistan and their current efforts to rebuild their academic career in the U.S. Both guests emphasize the importance of preserving educational opportunities, despite the Taliban’s restrictions.

The episode concludes with a call for international support to help sustain higher education in Afghanistan through alternative solutions like online learning and scholarships for displaced Afghan students and scholars.