Resilient Women of Afghanistan: Coding Through Constraints

In a world where opportunities for Afghan women seem to vanish under the constraints of Taliban rule, an extraordinary revolution is brewing—one of digital empowerment. At the heart of this transformation are brave women who are coding their path to a brighter future. Confined physically yet unrestricted in their determination, these women are rewriting not just code, but narratives of resilience.

The Digital Dawn in Afghanistan

When the Taliban seized power in 2021, they swiftly enforced strict restrictions on women, prohibiting them from education beyond primary school, among other rights. However, rather than bowing to this oppression, women like Sodaba have taken to the internet as their classroom, finding new hope in coding courses. According to Squamish Chief, this digital platform has become a beacon of opportunity.

A Journey of Growth

Sodaba, a former pharmacology student, found herself turning to a free coding course conducted in Dari by Afghan Geeks, an initiative founded by Murtaza Jafari—a once refugee, now a catalyst for change. As she learned coding and website development, Sodaba’s confidence soared, proving that even in the bleakest conditions, growth is possible.

Paying It Forward

Jafari’s story is one of resilience mirrored by his students. Having arrived in Greece knowing neither English nor computers, Jafari embraced coding, which opened a world of possibilities. His determination to “give back to the community” has now led to empowering Afghan women. With 28 students enrolled in various levels of coding classes, Afghan Geeks is not just teaching skills—it’s weaving a web of opportunity.

Online Academies: The New Beacon

Vision Online University, started by Zuhal and a university professor, stands testament to the indomitable spirit of Afghan women. Despite threats, Zuhal remains undeterred, passionately providing educational resources in diverse subjects to over 4,000 students. Her pursuit of a computer science degree through the University of the People showcases an unyielding commitment to education as a pathway to liberation.

Building Futures, One Code at a Time

For the women of Afghanistan, coding is more than just a skill—it’s a lifeline. Through digital education initiatives like Afghan Geeks and Vision Online University, opportunities for online internships and jobs have arisen, allowing them to work in a society that restricts physical professional presence. As efforts continue to expand knowledge and empower women, the future holds endless potential.

As Sodaba and many others embark on this journey, coding becomes the key to unlocking not just professional success, but personal empowerment. In the shadows of oppression, a digital revolution is thriving, proving that the human spirit—the Afghan spirit—when given the chance, will always find a way to shine.