Online English and Computer Classes for Girls

Last week, we received a letter from one of our students that deeply moved our team. With her permission, I would like to share her story one that reflects the determination, and hope of girls who continue their education through our online classes despite immense challenges. For this report, I am sharing her beautiful letter.  She calls it "Star of the City": 

"Star of the City

Call me Getty. I’m 22 years old and currently live in Jawzjan province, Afghanistan. It’s not safe for me to share my real name because of safety and cultural sensitivities.

Life was full of possibilities before the Taliban returned in 2021. My daily life was meaningful, filled with opportunities to learn and grow. I was going to school, improving my English, and preparing for university. Above all, I could walk outside without fear, wear any dress I wanted, and even raise my concerns with the government. I dreamed of becoming a pharmacist and studying fashion design abroad, then opening my own boutique called Star of the City, so every customer who wore my designs could shine like a star.

Then everything changed overnight. The Taliban returned, and Afghanistan was no longer the same. Families fled to save their lives, and mine left the home where I was born, where I spent my childhood, and where kind neighbors had once filled my days with memories. At first, schools and universities were closed to everyone. Two months later, they reopened briefly, and the university entrance exam results were announced. I was admitted to the faculty of pharmacy, and I was over the moon. For nearly a year, I studied with hope for the future. I loved learning about medicine, especially how science could heal people, and I felt proud to be part of something bigger than myself. But then, once again, education was banned, this time only for girls and women, and we were forced to leave our classrooms.

Life under restrictions became repetitive and heavy. My days were filled with housework, washing dishes, cleaning, and helping my family. Sometimes I watched movies with my parents and siblings, but inside I felt empty. The silence of the house felt heavy, and each day looked the same. Many times, my heart came to my mouth, as if fear and hopelessness were swallowing me. I felt time had stopped and my future was slipping away

In the heavy hours when light seemed far away, my family became my strength. My parents and siblings encouraged me every day to stay strong, reminding me that education isn’t only found in classrooms but also in not giving up. They told me to keep learning at home and to believe that one day things would change. Their support reminded me that hope could survive even in silence.

And then, like a spark in the darkness, one conversation changed everything. One day, I shared my feelings with my cousin, telling her how hopeless I felt. She listened and then gave me a phone number for a free English course for girls. The number was for Aid Afghanistan For Education, an organization giving girls a chance to learn despite restrictions. I joined their online classes in English and computer programs, and within weeks my life began to change. For the first time in months, I felt hope returning, a reminder that even in silence, new doors can open.

Still, learning isn’t easy. Girls in Afghanistan face many challenges. Using a phone often invites judgment. People say, “She’s not a good girl because she uses a phone.” Many girls are harassed with unwanted calls or added to fake groups. Trusting online courses feels risky, and fear is always present.

Through Aid Afghanistan For Education, I discovered more than just an English course. I found a community of girls who shared my struggles and dreams. At first, I had no courage to speak, but step by step I learned to read, write, listen to English songs, and even understand their meaning. I remember the first time I understood the lyrics of a song – it felt like a door opening to the world, giving me courage to believe I could connect with people far beyond Afghanistan. Each lesson gave me confidence, each word I learned felt like reclaiming a piece of my future. I can now follow English animations and read short storybooks, and I feel proud and connected to people far beyond my country. Our teachers encouraged us not only to study but to believe in ourselves, reminding us that knowledge is a light no one can take away. This course gave me hope again and restored my confidence. It opened doors I thought were closed forever.

With each new skill I gained, my confidence grew. What began as simple lessons in English became a doorway to imagining a different future. I started to believe that my voice mattered, that I could share my story and connect with people across the world. AAFE did more than teach me English, it gave me courage, dignity, and hope. My dreams are alive once more. I want to finish my pharmacy degree, study fashion design abroad, and open my boutique. Through pharmacy, I hope to heal, and through fashion, I hope to inspire and help. I also want to open an English class to help girls and my friends to learn English. This course reminded me that even when the world tries to close doors, education can open them again, lighting the way toward a future filled with possibility.

My story is only one among thousands of Afghan girls whose dreams are silenced by restrictions. You gave me the courage to believe again, but so many girls are still waiting for their glimmer of hope. Friends around the world can support us by sharing our voices with the world.

I’ve learned never to lose hope, and I ask you to stand with us in that hope. Together, we can keep learning, improving our skills, and opening doors that others try to close. We’re strong and brave and with your support, we’ll win this fight for freedom, education, and equal rights, and shine like stars in a sky no one can darken."

Because of your generosity, girls like her are able to continue their education and dream of a better future. Thank you for making this possible.

With gratitude

Hassina Sherjan

Links:

• Website