The Taliban and Women's Education

[AgnosticBoy]

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban’s longtime spokesman, emerged from the shadows Tuesday in his first-ever public appearance to address those concerns at a news conference.

He promised the Taliban would honor women’s rights within the norms of Islamic law, without elaborating.

Source: AP

The part in bold font is what I question. There are several accounts of the Taliban oppressing women, even preventing them from getting an education.

For debate:
1. Does the Koran forbid women from getting an education? If so, does it give a reason for that rule?

2. Assuming that the Koran gives a reason, is the reason(s) rational? Are there any good reasons or benefits to keep women from getting an education?