Officials from private universities and higher education institutes claimed that the deterioration of the economic situation is causing less students to attend classes. 

Officials said the quality of education services have declined in private universities since the reopening of classes about two months ago.

According to the officials, services at the universities is directly related to students’ fees, which caused universities to encounter several challenges.

“Income sources for private universities are student fees. There is no other source, so the universities face challenges,” said Farhad Amin, Administrative Manager of a private university.

“Some educated people lost their jobs, the female students rarely participate in universities--these are reasons behind the problem. The youth are not willing to continue their education,” said Rahmatullah Yousufi, a university teacher.

Private universities have decreased the fees for each semester by 20% but still student enrollment is down. 

Many students say they struggle with poverty and have lost their jobs in recent months, so they cannot pay for education.

“A major challenge for me and the rest of the students is the economic challenge, which most people--including students--face in society today,” said Safia Muradi Wardak, a student.

The Ministry of Higher Education allowed private universities and higher education institutions to be opened about two months ago, but public universities still remain closed across Afghanistan.