The Documentary Podcast A radio lifeline for Afghan women
24 snips
Sep 20, 2025 
Join Shekiba Habib, a BBC Afghan journalist, as she reveals how a radio program in the Panjshir Valley is empowering women and girls with essential education and health information despite Taliban restrictions. She shares touching encounters and the challenges faced by these women. In India, Asha Yedgay sheds light on the social and employment struggles of sanitation workers, predominantly from Dalit communities, exploring systemic caste biases and their impact on future generations. A thought-provoking discussion on resilience and hope.
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Returning Home After Decades
- Shekiba Habib described returning to Afghanistan after decades and feeling both homesick and scared.
- She recalled smooth airport processing despite worries and seeing women working at the airport as reassurance.
Radio As A Classroom And Clinic
- A Panjshir radio programme produces science and health lessons specifically for women and girls excluded from schools.
- The shows include chemistry, biology, physics and weekly medical segments on breastfeeding and periods.
Working Around Restrictions
- The station records lessons at teachers' homes to avoid breaking Taliban restrictions and then broadcasts them.
- Staff carefully follow rules to keep the private radio on air and protect its audience.