More than 40 schools have been closed following clashes between the government forces and the Taliban in the southern province of Helmand over the last 10 days.

The clashes are underway in different parts of Helmand, including the outskirts of Lashkargah city and Nad Ali, Nahri Saraj and Nawa districts.  
The Education Directorate of Helmand said the clashes have prevented “thousands” of students from going to school. 
“The schools are closed due to conflicts and due to displacement of families,” said Daud Shah Safari, head of Helmand Education Directorate. 
The Helmand clashes started 10 days ago when the Taliban intensified their attacks in different fronts in the province.  
Helmand students called on both sides of the war to end violence so that they can go back to school. 
“The Taliban should not close schools. Peace should be established in Afghanistan,” said Abdul Hakim, a student. 
“We call on the Taliban to allow all students to go to school,” said Nusratullah, a student. 
According local officials, more than 5,000 families were displayed in the clashes. 
“We have integrated four teams to survey the areas and help those who have been newly displaced,” said Sayed Ramin, head of Refugees and Repatriation Directorate of Helmand. 
The Helmand conflicts started amidst ongoing peace negotiations in Doha between teams representing the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban.