From Newsweek · · 2m
How Roya Mahboob is fighting for Afghan girls' education
An Afghan entrepreneur is using AI to help millions of girls access education under Taliban rule.
In brief
An Afghan entrepreneur is using AI to help millions of girls access education under Taliban rule. Technology can provide educational access where traditional schooling is blocked by oppression or conflict. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Books burned, dreams alive
When the Taliban ruled in 1996, young Roya Mahboob watched her books set on fire outside her home. Today she's using technology to give Afghan girls the education she was denied.
A computer changed everything
When Mahboob first encountered a computer as a girl, it opened her world. She realized millions of other Afghan girls needed the same access to technology and opportunity.
“Technology opened a window to the world when I was growing up in Afghanistan.”
Building the Digital Citizen Fund
Mahboob co-founded the Digital Citizen Fund, a nonprofit that provides technology, STEAM education and digital literacy to girls and women in developing countries.
From robotics to global recognition
In 2013, TIME named Mahboob one of its 100 Most Influential People. She launched the Afghan Dreamers robotics team in 2017, later featured in the 2025 film Rule Breakers.
Taliban's assault on women
Since 2021, the Taliban has issued over 100 decrees stripping women's rights. Girls are banned from education beyond sixth grade, and nearly two-thirds of women say their lives have worsened.
2.4 million girls cut off
More than 2.4 million Afghan girls have been denied access to secondary and higher education. Women have lost opportunities to work, lead and participate in society.
“It's one of the most difficult periods in recent history for Afghan women and girls.”
The Afghan Dreamers Academy
Mahboob launched an AI-powered platform offering live lessons, AI tutoring in multiple languages, mentoring and offline learning. Over 2,300 students are enrolled, working toward GEDs and diplomas.
AI enhances, doesn't replace
The curriculum is built with AI in consultation with teachers to ensure quality. Technology bridges gaps for girls in remote areas, teaching coding, business skills and building confidence.
Impact ripples through families
When girls learn STEAM and robotics, entire families and communities shift how they view women in technology. The success changes not just individual lives but cultural perceptions.
Expanding beyond Afghanistan
The Digital Citizen Fund now operates in Pakistan, Turkey and South Africa. UNESCO estimates 273 million children globally lack school access due to poverty, conflict or discrimination.
The main idea
Technology can provide educational access where traditional schooling is blocked by oppression or conflict.
