FutureLearn has taken a bold stand against the Taliban’s ban on women’s higher education in Afghanistan by launching an initiative offering Afghan women free access to its extensive online learning platform. This initiative provides over 1,700 courses from top British universities, including specialist ExpertTracks, creating a vital opportunity for Afghan women to pursue their education in the face of severe restrictions. By empowering these women to continue their studies, FutureLearn is demonstrating a steadfast commitment to educational equality while also highlighting the importance of resilience in the fight against oppression.

In just two days after the ban was announced, FutureLearn’s in-house team successfully planned and executed the campaign, collaborating with local NGOs and women’s rights organisations to spread awareness and establish a mentorship programme that pairs Afghan learners with volunteer educators worldwide. The initiative has already seen remarkable success, with 33,000 course enrolments from Afghanistan, including 14,000 new learners who had previously lacked access to the platform. The offering has not only created a safe and accessible learning environment for Afghan women but has also raised international awareness about the educational crisis in Afghanistan.

FutureLearn addressed critical challenges like internet connectivity and language barriers by offering tailored content for Afghan women. The initiative simplifies registration, curates practical courses, and ensures accessibility in low-bandwidth areas. It serves as a lifeline against Taliban policies and stands as a powerful statement supporting women’s educational rights until the ban is lifted. The programme will remain active until the ban is lifted, ensuring that educational opportunities for Afghan women continue to grow.