Help Afghan Boys Trade Guns for Books

Covid-19 has created a great many difficulties in Afghanistan, especially because it is a poor country and has fragile health and education systems. AIL has had to close its Learning Centers but staff worked hard to adapt its education program to online, distance learning. Students have been provided with education packs and have access to a teacher by email, a hotline and in person if necessary.

It is vital that  allstudents continue their learning and do not lose heart.  “It takes time and patience to gain acceptance for education, especially in rural areas. I am concerned that our students do not lose heart and turn away from education,” says Dr. Yacoobi.

Quarantine has increased the sense of isolation that many people feel and is pushing boys to seek any form of work to bring in some income. The stress of the health and economic situation is causing a rise in family disputes and violence in the home.  The education packs give boys a focus and a hope that they will return to school or an AIL center for classes in the near future.

AIL has been able to repurpose its tailoring classrooms at many sites, to the production of personal protective equipment. Teachers and tailoring course graduates are producing gowns and masks while other staff are joining in and helping to make face shields. These items are being used in AIL health clinics and being donated to the government for use in other cities.

Your support is vital in helping us maintain our distance learning program. 

AIL is working towards

SDG Goal 4 – Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.