Empower Afghan Girls with Computer Training

This week 88 girls graduated from the 3-month computer training course. Afghan girls are still prohibited from attending school past 6th grade.

Students report that they have little knowledge of computers before entering the course and upon graduation are competent in Microsoft suite, internet usage, and Kobo Toolbox. Students also complete a final project, and several students shared that they were able to help their parents in their work, especially with Excel because of what they learned in class.

Here is one student's story of her experience in the class.

I am a 6th grade student. Unfortunately, the unpredictability of our future weighs on me, but in this dark moment I am extremely happy to have been introduced to AAFF.

When I first heard that computer courses were opening for girls in 4th, 5th, and 6th grades, I couldn't resist joining and was one of the first students to enrol.

This course motivated me to leave the house. Even though I am not very brave and like many other girls I am scared of the situations we face, yet every day I gathered the courage to attend this one-hour class.

This hour was not just a computer class for me. It was also an English, math, photography, and motivational class. It felt like a home where we could rely on each other. It was a space for creativity and sometimes just a place to feel good. 

As I graduate, I feel both emotional and excited. I'm unsure if I will be able to join this course again in the future, but I hope it continues to encourage girls like me. I will also be grateful for the choice I made joining this course. 

My family is proud of me, and I am proud of myself.