AFGHAN FEMALE STUDENT OUTREACH

This has been a challenging spring. For AFSO; for NGOs worldwide; for women in Afghanistan; for anyone trying to make a positive difference in the lives of people in need. The small but mighty team at AFSO has been working nonstop to secure the partnerships, raise the funds, and make the plans that will ensure safety and a future for our students who are now at risk, whether from the sudden loss of USAID funding or from renewed aggression by the Taliban.

But we all hear enough bad news. We are also wrapping up our classes for spring and planning for summer. Here's a quick report along with some anecdotal evidence that what we do touches hearts and minds in ways that nothing else can.

• This spring, we taught 800 students ranging from 12th-grade graduates to master's level students in Afghanistan.
• We numbered 42 instructors from universities around the world, teaching 37 courses across the full range of the arts and sciences, including 11 classes in English, with the help of 37 course assistants from 5 different universities.
• Twenty peer instructors also taught 10 sections of English grammar, from Low Intermediate to Advanced.
• 25 students also took credit-bearing courses through our partnership with the Open Society University Network. They were able to participate in these courses as well as our other classes because of the provision of mobile data directly to their phones.
• 75 students submitted testimony on the status of justice and the protection of women to the Special Rapporteur for Afghanistan, to include in his next report to the U.N.

Among other comments, our students this spring had this to say:

 

The best thing about my AFSO experience was the chance to connect with people from different backgrounds. It wasn't just about learning new skills but feeling part of a group that cared for and supported each other. I enjoyed hearing everyone's stories and learning from them, which made me feel like I was growing as a person. Looking to the future, I have big dreams. I want to earn a master's degree and make a difference in teaching English in Afghanistan. It's not easy, but experiences like AFSO give me hope and remind me that even the biggest dreams can come true with the right support.

 

The best thing about my AFSO experience this summer was the opportunity to connect with new friends from diverse backgrounds. The activities and workshops were not only educational but also incredibly fun. I felt a sense of belonging and learned so much about different cultures and perspectives. It was an unforgettable experience that enriched my life in many ways.

 

This was the second semester that I was with AFSO. Actually the first semester that I studied in AFSO it was very difficult because I didn't know how to study the lesson on right way but with my teacher I found those ways. I am very proud that i am a student of AFSO very very proud. And grateful that I have a place that I can study. Thank you so much, I appreciate your dedication, support, and kindness.

 

The best part of my AFSO experience was its outstanding academic quality and the opportunity to learn from highly experienced U.S. instructors who were experts in their fields. Their teaching inspired me and expanded my knowledge in meaningful ways.

Additionally, AFSO's dedication to guiding us toward new opportunities stood out. They consistently supported us with valuable advice, shared resources, and a personal advisor to help us navigate applications and future plans. This made me feel optimistic and confident about my path ahead.

 

Our best experience was our happiness and hope. The best emotional experience was the sense of empathy we felt from you. It showed us that no matter how far apart two people are, what matters is their humanity and empathy. We, who are in a corner of the world in a country where girls are not valued, and you, in a large and prosperous country, far away from us, still have not forgotten us. You are thinking of helping us, providing us with hope, and working to provide education for us. We are truly very grateful.

 

The best thing about the AFSO course was improving English skills through engaging discussions on international relations and global leaders. It helped build confidence in speaking and expressing ideas. The interactive learning methods, like debates and group activities, made the lessons more practical and fun. Plus, the supportive environment encouraged learning without fear of mistakes.

 

AFSO was great and everything was so beautiful and understandable. All the instructors were so kind and professional and taught us in a very good way. Also all the thing was great and we received data packages also in time. I want to say thank you very much for providing such a chance for us.🙏

 

 With deep appreciation for your continued support,