Afghani Beheading
Taliban militants beheaded a teacher in rural Afghanistan in January because the 45-year-old had allowed girls to study at his school. The former Taliban regime, which remains powerful in Afghani outposts, had forbidden girls from school. Since their ouster in 2001, thousands of Afghani girls have returned to school, but Taliban insurgents also have forced at least 100 schools to close.
A Price for Education
After more than 20 years of free education, Botswana announced it will charge secondary students up to $84 a year. Since per capita income averages about $3,200, the move likely will prevent many, especially girls, from attending schools.
Stressed in Hong Kong
After two Hong Kong teachers committed suicide, thousands took the streets in January, calling for fewer working hours. The Hong Kong Professional Teachers Union, an Education International affiliate, said teachers are working up to 70 hours a week under intense pressure following new federal education reforms. Education secretary Fanny Law came under fire when she said, “If their death is related to education reforms, then why did only two [commit suicide?]”
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