Following the suspension of women from attending universities, the union of private universities said that at least 35 private universities are at risk of collapse.

“The economic challenges have surged widely. Now that we are interviewing you, 30 to 35 universities are facing major economic problems,” said Mohammad Karim Nasiri, media officer at the union.

Some owners of universities warned that many other higher education institutions would be closed due to economic challenges if female students are not allowed to attend classes.

“There is no man at this educational center. If the implementation of this order continues, we will be obliged to close the doors of this center,” said Azizullah Amir, founder of the Mura educational center.

“The universities are closed for women. But we look at the closure of the university as a temporary and we hope universities will be reopened and students continue their education,” said Enayatullah Khalil Hadaf, deputy head of Dawat University.

Ziaullah Hashimi, a spokesman for the Ministry of Higher Education, said efforts are underway to resolve the issues in the sector.

“We are trying to ease our principles and provide services for the universities and solve the problems that cause obstacles for universities,” Hashimi said.

According to the union of private universities, 140 private universities are currently active in the country.

Last week, the Ministry of Higher Education in a letter suspended higher education for women in public and private universities.