Learning Centers for Rural Afghan Women

Dear Friends,

AIL runs 24 Learning Centers in Herat Province which served  17,813  people including, 11,592  women and girls in 2015. One of the centers is for the disabled and there are 30 residents including 5 women. The center provides them a place to learn and receive care as there are 3 nursing staff on hand. Most recently the center opened a library to help with the residents' education and for enjoyment.This resident’s comments explain what the center means to the people.

“My name is Fariba. I am a 21 years old woman. I am disabled because of my legs and I can’t walk. I am not feeling any mental disability since I came to this center. The nurses helped me get out of a dangerous depression. I never believed in my abilities and I thought I was useless, but I found out about my capacity here. I have a lot of new friends and study literacy here. My mind has changed I have got good feelings about myself and I believe that I can do a lot of good things. I go to the city in my wheelchair a few times a week and attend classes where I learn to live happily and love others in the community. I have also learned about leadership and I have made big decisions for my future.”

This center helps women cope with their disability and look to learn new skills. Many students are now attending regular school and 11 are at university.

We are thankful for your continued support for Learning Centers for women in Herat. Together, we are making a difference in Afghan lives.