Obaida's Dream: Lighting the Path to Education in Toratangi

In the picturesque but challenging valley of Bermal, within the village of Toratangi, lives Obaida, a bright and determined 9-year-old girl whose pursuit of education has become a symbol of hope for her community. Born into an impoverished family with no prior educational background, Obaida's journey is a testament to the transformative power of learning. Obaida is the only daughter in her family to attend school, making her the apple of her father’s eye and a trailblazer in a community where gender disparities in education are pronounced. Her two brothers travel 9 kilometers to a boys-only high school, yet despite the challenges of distance and societal norms, Obaida’s resolve to learn has never wavered. In 2022, the Afghan Women's Educational Center (AWEC) initiated a Community-Based Education (CBE) class exclusively for girls in Toratangi. Seizing the opportunity, Obaida enrolled with a fervor that reflected her deep passion for education. Initially, she harbored concerns about the program’s duration, worried it might end prematurely. However, her dedication remained steadfast as she immersed herself fully in her studies. Over two years, Obaida’s remarkable aptitude shone through; she consistently excelled across all subjects, becoming the top-ranked student in her class. Her enthusiasm not only boosted her learning but also inspired her classmates, creating a vibrant, supportive learning environment. Her teacher, reassured by AWEC’s commitment, confirmed that the program would extend for at least three years, providing a stable pathway for Obaida’s educational aspirations. Looking ahead, Obaida is poised to complete her tenure in the CBE program and transition to further education at a hub school. Her aspirations are high: she dreams of becoming a doctor, a goal now within reach thanks to her unwavering commitment and the foundational education provided by AWEC. Baitullah, her dedicated teacher, praises AWEC for their crucial support in launching these educational initiatives and echoes the community’s call for extending the CBE program through to the sixth grade. Such an extension, he argues, would significantly enhance the educational prospects for Obaida and her peers, securing a brighter future for the entire community. While AWEC’s CBE classes have already opened significant doors, particularly for girls in underserved areas, the need for continued and expanded support is clear. By prioritizing and extending girls' education through initiatives like CBE classes, communities not only promote female academic participation but also lay the groundwork for societal progress and empowerment.
06-24-2024