In a previous post I discussed literacy rates in Afghanistan. Provincial Reconstruction Teams throughout the country are attempting to assist in raising those levels. The best way we can do that is to build schools and supply textbooks. Afghan schools have been historically overcrowded and undermanned. At this school, for example, younger students patiently wait in line for a classroom of older high school students to clear. Notice the tents in the background, which are used for the young students in 1st and 2nd grade. The schools are very simple to include 8-12 classrooms with each one having a single chalkboard and several desks. Electricity is not necessary as classes generally run during daylight hours from 8:00 to 12:00. Don't let the short school day fool you. It got the best of this teacher who is taking a nap behind the school. I bet some of you teachers wish you could pull that off.
Afghans separate boys and girls schools since Afghan law prevents them from learning together. From the picture, you can tell this school happens to be for boys. Girls' schools are difficult to find as the Taliban restrict their learning by harassing school builders and burning the existing schools.
4 comments:
Really interesting post- makes me thankful for my freedoms! I don't grudge that guy his afternoon nap- I'm sure his life is hard enough.
Love you!
Is that a wheelchair ramp going into the school or is it for carting something in?
It's actually a raised platform about 3 feet off of the ground. Maybe it's raised for the flood season, which is apparently March-April. Still waiting for the floods.
Thanks for the interesting information on education in Afghanistan. It is amazing to see that even though the conditions are rough, there are those that value their education enough to get themselves to school everyday. Truly amazing.
~Jennifer
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