Is a husband permitted to prevent his wife from pursuing her education or to postpone her studies until circumstances become easier, despite a prior agreement with her father, or is this considered a breach of covenants?

The husband is not obligated to cover his wife's study expenses unless he committed to it in the marriage contract.

If it was merely a promise, he is not obliged to fulfill it, especially in case of financial hardship. However, if it was a condition in the contract and part of the mahr (dowry), then he is obligated to fulfill it and provide for her until she completes her studies. It remains a debt upon him if he faces financial hardship, but he is not required to take out a loan for it.

If such an obligation exists, the husband may prevent her from studying until he can afford to support her, unless someone else covers her expenses.

If the agreement was that her father would cover one year and you the rest, then you are only obligated to cover the remainder if you committed to it in the contract as part of the mahr.

It is advisable to try to convince the wife to temporarily suspend her studies until the situation becomes easier, and her family can be involved in mediating this.