Education for Children with Disabilities in Kabul

More than one billion people have some form of disability, 80% of which live in low-middle income countries (World Health Organization and World Bank). This subpopulation remains substantially underserved, and experiences consistently high rates of poverty, mental distress, and social exclusion (World Health Organization and World Bank).

One of the most stigmatized groups are people disabled at birth or from an unknown cause. The burden of stigma limits access to healthcare, education, and limits opportunities to make friends and start a family.

Research indicates that educated people with disabilities are less at risk of social exclusion and mental distress. Education provides a sense of empowerment, which enables an individual to cope despite adversity caused by stigma.

AfD remains committed to providing an education for children with disabilities, and instilling a sense of value among our students. Our Rahyab School in Kabul is attended by 455 students - 40% of whom are girls. Since our last report, 397 students have progressed to the next grade, and all students in the final grade have graduated. The School Coordinator is now working on a national dictionary of sign language to be developed.

With more than 40% of the Afghan population being unemployed, finding paid work for the disabled students is a challenge. However, attempts are being made to employ some of the recent graduates as teachers in the school.

All members of the population should have the right to an education. Exclusion feeds hate, and prohibits the development of a country. With your support, we can continue to support disabled children in Afghanistan, and give them the opportunity to reach their potential.

Kind regards,

The team at AfD

Links:

• http://www.action-for-development.org/index.php/en/school-for-children-with-disabilities/