Empowering Afghan Girls: The LEARN Program’s Impact on Education and Hope

In a country where education for girls faces significant barriers, Embrace Relief’s LEARN program shines as a beacon of hope and empowerment. Muskan Ziayee, a 17-year-old student from Kabul, Afghanistan, and Mr. Munir Munir, a committed teacher, share their experiences and the transformative impact of this vital initiative.

Muskan’s day begins at 4 a.m. with prayer and recitation of the Quran, followed by her online lessons from 5 to 10 a.m. She then dedicates her time to teaching English until 4 p.m., reads books, helps her mother with dinner, and studies until she sleeps at 9 p.m. This rigorous schedule reflects her dedication and the importance of education in her life.

Before joining the LEARN program, Muskan faced numerous challenges. Schools were closed for girls, and electricity issues further complicated access to education. Despite these obstacles, the LEARN program provided her with a structured, supportive learning environment, as well as a sense of autonomy and the confidence to pursue her dreams.

“The LEARN program really impacted my life in a good way. It’s like finding a new hope for studying and reaching my goals,” says Muskan. She highlights her ability to manage lessons at her own pace, learn new subjects like United States history, and receive continuous support from her school. “I can manage my lessons on my own pace.”

Muskan aspires to become a doctor and to build a hospital to serve the poor. She expresses profound gratitude to the donors of the LEARN program, acknowledging that their support has transformed her life and provided her with a clear path to achieving her goals.

“I am very lucky to find an opportunity to join the LEARN program,” she says, emphasising the critical role of education in her journey. “Since I joined the LEARN program, I can see a lot of changes in my life. Before joining, I did not have a certain study program to progress my lessons and I was confused about what to do. But now I am going ahead with a complete program and goal.”

The Dedication of Teachers in the LEARN Program

Mr. Munir, a biology teacher with over six years of experience, has been involved with the LEARN program for four months. His motivation stems from seeing Afghan girls struggling without schooling.

“Seeing them deprived of their right to education is the main reason that urges me to get involved in such learning programs,” he explains.
Mr. Munir describes the program’s positive impact on students’ lives, noting significant improvements in their attitudes and creativity.

“From the time they entered this program, a huge improvement can be noticed in their attitude such as becoming optimistic, organised, courageous, compassionate, and creative,” he says.

Despite challenges like internet access and adequate learning environments, Mr. Munir and his colleagues use innovative solutions to ensure the continuity of education. “We have trouble having access to the internet and a satisfactory place for teaching. I could overcome the problems by spinning through data bundles and Wi-Fi devices.”

His dedication to his students is evident in his commitment to providing extra classes and regular evaluations. “Their progress is evaluated every two weeks as well as extra classes are conducted for them in order to help them overcome learning challenges.” He observes that students in the LEARN program display remarkable confidence and a strong determination to achieve their academic goals. “The difference between the students having access to this program compared to the ones not having access can be easily noticed as they are confident in achieving their goals for a bright future,” he notes.

The program has not only improved their academic performance but also fostered a sense of optimism and resilience. “These programs could bring favourable impacts on their lives which assist them to endeavour more and stay positive on achieving their goals.”

The LEARN program’s success stories underscore the importance of education in empowering Afghan girls. Despite the difficult circumstances, the program provides a lifeline, offering hope and a pathway to a brighter future. Your support is crucial in continuing this mission and helping more girls like Muskan achieve their dreams.