We are a group of like-minded women and men in the US and Canada supporting a non-profit social enterprise college in Afghanistan that was rendered inoperable after August 15, 2021 when the Taliban took over. We are committed to continuing the mission of the college.
The Taliban promise women the right to get an education and pursue employment but even if that is true, it won't come without imposing severe restrictions. So far, female employees who have dared to go to their offices have been sent home. Teachers and students have been told to wait until new policies and procedures are announced that align with the Taliban's values. Ascent's students are scared for their lives and fear being forced into marriages like the ones that took place during the 90s.
This fundraising campaign is to raise $180,000 in scholarships to help at least 1000 students return to online classes safely over the Internet. We are also searching for donors willing to support one student at USD15 per month or USD180 per student for a school year. Therefore, we would appreciate it if you could also help us search for 1000 families, individuals, and organizations, each willing to sponsor at least one Afghan student.
The dreams of at least 1000 women students will come true. Otherwise, they will never complete their studies, as they all have lost their jobs since August 15, 2021. The individuals will gain a college degree to help them work in their host countries or find jobs online. Afghan professors who are now refugees will be able to teach online. This will preserve the knowledge community Afghanistanistan's future relies on.
