The Unyielding Power of Education for Afghan Girls

In a world where access to education is often taken for granted, it's crucial to remember that for many girls around the globe, learning is a courageous act. Imagine a reality where attending school is a dangerous endeavor, where the simple pursuit of knowledge can carry deadly consequences. This was the stark reality in Afghanistan under the Taliban, and echoes of that danger persist even today.

A Childhood Defined by Secrecy

I grew up in a time when the simple act of going to school was a revolutionary act. When the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, girls were forbidden from attending school. For five years, I disguised myself as a boy to accompany my older sister to a clandestine school. This secret place became our sanctuary, a haven where we could defy the oppressive regime and pursue our education.

• Each day, we navigated a labyrinth of routes to evade suspicion.
• Our books were concealed within grocery bags, masking our true purpose.
• The school itself was a humble house, packed with over a hundred students in a single living room.

Despite the ever-present fear of discovery, the students, teachers, and parents were united in their determination. The risks were immense, but the thirst for knowledge was even greater.

The Unwavering Belief of Family

I was fortunate to be raised in a family that placed immense value on education and cherished their daughters. My grandfather, a true visionary, defied societal norms by insisting that his daughter, my mother, receive an education. This decision led to his disownment, but it paved the way for my mother to become a teacher, shaping countless lives.

My father, the first in his family to receive an education, was unwavering in his commitment to his children's education, including his daughters. He recognized that the risk of not educating them far outweighed the dangers posed by the Taliban.

A Father's Wisdom

I remember a time when the constant fear and uncertainty made me want to give up. But my father's words resonated deeply within me: "You can lose everything in life – your money, your home – but the one thing that will always remain with you is what is here," he said, pointing to my head. "If we have to sell our blood to pay your school fees, we will."

A Future Forged in Hope

Today, I am a proud graduate, standing tall in a country scarred by decades of war. Fewer than 6% of women my age have had the opportunity to pursue education beyond high school. Had it not been for my family's unwavering commitment, I would have been one of them.

SOLA: A Beacon of Hope

Upon returning to Afghanistan, I co-founded SOLA, the first boarding school for girls in the country. Despite the risks, I witness the ambition and determination of my students, and the unwavering support of their parents. SOLA is more than just a school; it's a symbol of hope and a testament to the transformative power of education.

The Courage of Ahmed

One of my student's father, Ahmed, faced a terrifying threat when he sent his daughter to SOLA. After narrowly escaping a roadside bomb, he received a phone call warning him to keep his daughter away from school. His response was defiant: "Kill me now if you wish, but I will not ruin my daughter's future because of your old and backward ideas."

The Role of Men in Empowering Women

It's crucial to acknowledge the vital role that men play in empowering women, especially in societies like Afghanistan. While mothers are often the initial advocates for their daughters' education, the support of fathers is essential for creating lasting change. These men recognize the value of their daughters and understand that their success is intertwined with their own.

A Promising Future

While some may see fragility in the progress made in Afghanistan, I see a promising future. When I am with my students and their supportive parents, I am filled with hope. Afghanistan is a country of boundless possibilities, and the girls of SOLA remind me of that every single day. Like me, they are dreaming big, and together, we are building a brighter future for our nation.