ovr.news

Community bonds, rootedness, living heritage

Afghanistan’s book clubs offer girls educational space

8am.media · 15 October 2026
Afghanistan’s book clubs offer girls educational space
Photo: 8am.media

Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work

In Afghanistan, girls are forming book clubs to continue learning despite restrictions on their education.

These groups meet in homes, libraries, and online to read books and discuss a range of topics from literature to current events. Girls report that reading with others motivates them to continue learning and exposes them to diverse perspectives. The book clubs provide a space for girls to share ideas and practice expressing their opinions, which some members find particularly valuable.

However, accessing books remains a challenge due to costs, limited libraries, and a scarcity of resources. Some groups have adapted to these obstacles by meeting online, but unreliable internet and power outages disrupt these gatherings. Despite these difficulties, the girls see the book clubs as a way to maintain their connection to education and each other, while also advocating for better access to books and safe learning environments.

Although these clubs cannot replace formal schooling, they offer an important outlet for continued intellectual growth.

Was this worth your time?
Read on 8am.media

More in Belonging

Browse all Belonging articles

What made it worth it?

What's wrong with this article?