Grow Peace in Afghanistan: Educate Women & Girls

The AAE hopes you and your family are doing well during this difficult time. Schools across Afghanistan are closed because of the COVID-19 virus, including AAE's schools. We're hopeful for a quick resolution to this crisis so we can return to class. 

In the meantime, one of our students, Khatera, asked to share her story with you. Here it is.

"In 1995, due to the civil war, my family was forced to migrate from Kabul to Quetta, Pakistan. The shift had considerable impacts on me and my family. I was working along with my father as a carpet weaver to pay for the very basic needs of our family.  During the eight years of residency in Pakistan, I couldn't make a way to get an education. "

"In 2003, I came back to Afghanistan and settled in Kabul.  My family permitted me to get an education. As a 14-year-old old girl, I wasn't allowed to get admission in public school, because of my age. The only option was to attend literacy classes." 

"The literacy classes were only up to third grade.  After graduation from literacy classes, I was desperate to pursue my education.  I made several attempts to get admission to public school, but each time failed because of my age."

  
"After several months of searching, I found Aid Afghanistan for Education schools, which had no age restriction for students. I got admitted in fourth grade. The school program was suitable for my age and needs. The 12 years schooling period compressed into 7 years and 8 months.  The learning process sufficiently contributed to my development.  During my school years, I acquired good knowledge and skills.  I made some good, life time, friends, who are quite effective in my life." 

"After graduation, I passed the Kanker Exam (annual entrance exam to Kabul university) and got admitted in social studies in my favorite university.  After graduation from university, I followed my dream of becoming a teacher.  I was recruited by a private school, where I am teaching social subjects." 

"Now, I am teaching to hundreds of girls and women and helping them to be capable personalities.  Meanwhile, I am contributing to my family by paying the school costs of my two sisters." 

"I am proud of myself and seeing myself a capable person, by having the capacity to contribute to myself and others. Indeed, this achievement would be never possible, unless I had the chance to study at AAE school."

We are so proud of Khatrera and students like her who rise above their cirumstances to achieve their dreams. Thank you for contuing your support of Aid Afghanistan for Education, and take care.