Community-Based Education in Central and Northern Afghanistan
Published: Feb 12, 2025 Reading time: 2 minutes Share: Share an articleAccess to education is crucial for a country's development and prosperity. Yet, it remains an unattainable dream for many girls in Afghanistan, especially in rural areas.
In the Nerkh District of Maidan Wardak Province, we established community-based education (CBE) classes for out-of-school children with SADA, our local partner, and with funds from the European Union.
Despite the shortage of hub schools and long distances, children and their parents eagerly embraced education, enrolling their children in the CBE classes. "As a teacher, I have seen the light of happiness not only on the faces of children and their parents but throughout the community," says Mohammad Moeen, a CBE teacher. "These classes are bringing the light of education to children," he continued.
Education inspires
The CBE classes, established in close coordination with the communities, are addressing the geographical and socio-economic barriers that limit access to formal education out of school children. By establishing CBE classes within the local communities, more children—especially girls—can safely attend class.
"PIN and SADA teams, in collaboration with the local communities and authorities, have established an incredible network of CBEs in selected districts of Samangan and Wardak Provinces. I'm honoured to be part of this team efforts, thankful to the European Union for supporting this intervention, and proud of all the kids that are daily attending classes," says Sergio Mainetti, PIN Afghanistan Country Director.
During the visit, we met Fatima (9), a CBE student. She showed her skills and passion by writing the words she learned on the whiteboard and reading confidently from her book. "I want to become a teacher," she says. Her words show how education can inspire.
150 CBE classes for 5,250 children
We have established 50 new CBE classes in the Nerkh District, providing education to 1,750 out-of-school children. Additionally, we provide access to education for 3,500 out-of-school children affected by the crises in the Dara-e-suf-e-Bala and Dara-e-suf-e-Payen districts of Samangan Province. This project focuses on getting education to out-of-school children.
Additionally, we have distributed teacher-, classroom-, and student-kits, which include school bags and textbooks to support the students. These ensure that students have everything they need to pursue their education effectively.
