Panah Press | Exclusive Report

Nazanin Wali, an Afghan graduate, has received an Excellence Award from Rome Business School in Italy, an achievement that, according to her, will enable her to continue her studies in artificial intelligence. In an exclusive interview with Panah Press, she says she dedicates this achievement to the girls of Afghanistan, particularly those who dream of studying and working in technology and innovation—girls who continue striving to build a different future despite educational restrictions.

From Education in Kabul to Academic Opportunities in Europe

Nazanin Wali began her education in Afghanistan, studying at a public school and the Afghan-Turk High School in Kabul. She later continued her higher education at the American University of Central Asia and Bard College, completing her bachelor’s degree with distinction.

In response to questions from Panah Press, Wali explains that her academic background and subsequent activities in Germany and other countries played a role in securing this opportunity.

According to her, the financial support associated with the award included two types of tuition benefits or discounts: one related to women and another based on academic merit. These benefits cover a substantial portion of her educational expenses.

For Wali, this achievement is more than an academic distinction; it is an opportunity to continue learning in one of the important and rapidly growing fields of today’s world.

Dedicating Her Achievement to the Girls of Afghanistan

Nazanin Wali says she dedicates the award to the girls of Afghanistan, particularly those who dream of pursuing education, working in technology, and participating in scientific innovation.

She believes that Afghan girls have the talent and ability to succeed, but being deprived of education and facing social restrictions can prevent their potential from flourishing.

Wali, who was born during the first period of Taliban rule in Afghanistan, emphasises the importance of access to education and equal opportunities. She hopes her achievement will inspire girls pursuing educational opportunities outside Afghanistan and demonstrate that their talents deserve opportunities and support.

The Afghan graduate also wants to continue her learning journey and put her knowledge into practice. In her view, education should not be limited to obtaining a degree; knowledge becomes more valuable when it is applied in real life and helps bring about change.

Why Does Women’s Participation in Artificial Intelligence Matter?

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming various aspects of life, education, the economy, and the labour market. However, women remain underrepresented in some areas of this field.

According to information published by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), women account for approximately 12 per cent of AI researchers. This figure applies globally and should not be interpreted as a statistic specific to Afghanistan.

In a study published in 2024, UNESCO also warned that some generative AI systems may reproduce gender stereotypes. For example, they may portray women more often in traditional and domestic roles while depicting men in professional and managerial positions.

This concern highlights the importance of women’s participation in designing and developing AI systems. Broader participation can help identify biases and take into account the diverse experiences and needs of society.

In this context, Afghan women’s continued education in scientific and technological fields can contribute not only to individual advancement but also to highlighting the abilities and potential that could grow and make an impact if opportunities were available.

Education: A Right for Every Girl

In response to questions from Panah Press, Wali stresses that education is a fundamental right and that girls’ and women’s access to it should not be a matter of dispute.

She hopes that one day all people, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or language, will have equal opportunities for education and advancement.

For Nazanin Wali, this award is not the end of her journey but an opportunity to continue her studies, expand her knowledge, and apply what she has learned. She hopes her experience will encourage Afghan girls facing educational restrictions to keep their academic and professional dreams alive.

Her achievement once again draws attention to the potential of Afghan girls and the importance of providing equal educational opportunities. These girls are not lacking in talent or ability; what matters is creating conditions in which they can learn, grow, and contribute to shaping their own futures and that of their society.

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