‘As if we’re entering a new era of human existence’

While growing up in Afghanistan, Muqtader Omari ’25 had a passion for astrophysics, yet the political environment in his country led to various diversions — including a stint as a writer and studying government — before he ultimately returned to his scientific beginnings to delve into artificial intelligence.

Following his high school graduation in Kabul, Omari initiated a nonprofit organization called Talk Science, aimed at educating youth via social media platforms. However, he soon discovered that education bore political implications he had not foreseen.

“I began to observe all these restrictions that existed, and I wanted to understand their origins,” explained Omari, highlighting the obstacles Afghan girls encounter in pursuit of education under Taliban authority. His inquisitiveness prompted him to write for a publication in Kabul, eventually leading him to seek higher education in the U.S.

At Harvard, where he is among nearly 6,800 international students throughout the University, Omari chose to major in government and computer science. Throughout his undergraduate experience, he aimed to learn more about his homeland as the Taliban regained authority over Afghanistan’s governance. In 2023, the Adams House resident encountered lecturer in the Modern Middle East Mohammad Sagha through a course centered on regional order, U.S. military involvement, and the politics of Iraq and Afghanistan.

“What distinguishes Muqtader is that, despite having a compelling personal narrative, he doesn’t solely depend on it to shape his perspective,” remarked Sagha. “He’s intellectually disciplined and strives to empirically study and comprehend Afghanistan, its surrounding environment, U.S. foreign policy, and other influences through a well-rounded academic lens — which is rare.”

Sagha further noted: “He is deeply passionate about the situation in his homeland and is eager to make a difference.”

“I meticulously planned my high school years, and none of it transpired as I intended. I’ll allow myself to make choices in the moment. I just hope to find joy and continue learning.”

Omari’s early academic interests may have been tied to Afghanistan, but he was determined to challenge himself by engaging with students from diverse backgrounds. Regarding his first-year roommate selection, Omari mentioned, “I didn’t wish to be with other international or Middle Eastern students. I wanted it to be as different from who I am as conceivable, as I believed that’s what Harvard represented.”

He joined the Institute of Politics as a study group leader and the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum Committee, where he contributed to the organization of impartial discussions on politics, public service, and various issues. However, midway through his tenure, Omari recognized that politics was not his path. Craving the structure that science provided, he developed a fascination for artificial intelligence.

“It’s astonishing to me,” he said. “It feels as though we’re embarking on a new chapter of human existence.”

Omari’s aspirations post-Harvard remain uncertain. “I meticulously planned my life during high school, and none of it came to fruition,” he remarked. “I’ll allow myself to choose in the moment. I just hope to find happiness and continue learning.”

Ultimately, he aims to return to Afghanistan, though the current political landscape is too volatile, he noted. His family, including younger sisters, relocated to the U.K. after the Taliban’s resurgence. “I could never envision feeling at home anywhere other than Kabul,” he expressed.

Sagha is optimistic about Omari’s future and believes he will thrive wherever he finds himself. “He, along with other talented members of the Afghan diaspora, can significantly contribute to representing their country and enhancing our society and knowledge here in the United States.”