Women's Learning Center in Herat, Afghanistan

Summary

Empowering Afghan women through the provision of education and training opportunities as well as basic health services

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Herat is the largest city in western Afghanistan and a main trade city for exports. No education has been available to women and girls in Herat for the last decade under the Taliban regime. Recent patterns of civil strife in Afghanistan have destroyed about 95% of the infrastructure and services. Established in September 2002, the Herat Women’s Learning Center serves about 425 women and children, with plans for service expansion during 2003.

How will this project solve this problem?

This center offers teacher training, English, literacy, math, and computer classes. Skills like sewing and carpet weaving are also taught. Leadership and human rights classes teach women how to assert their rights in a culturally sensitive way.

Potential Long Term Impact

This project will result in the increased education of Afghan women in the region. The knowledge of income generating skills, as well as leadership skills will help these women to support themselves and their families.

Project Message

The Women's Learning Centers have transformed the lives of Afghan women in Herat. One female student wrote us, "[AIL's programs] are like a sun that saved people by its rays."
- Toc Dunlap, President

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).

Resources