Education International

ATROAfghan Teachers' Rights Observatory

Testimony

Farzaneh, a female teacher in a girls’ school for over 20 years in Samangan

I am profoundly disturbed by the closure of girls' schools beyond the 6th grade, depriving them of their right to education.

Teaching brings me joy, particularly as I teach English. Witnessing the eagerness of my students to learn when I am at school is truly rewarding. The girls show remarkable enthusiasm and interest in their lessons.

It is truly disheartening that their opportunity to learn is being squashed. It is a great shame.

More Testimonies

Hasina, a female teacher in a boys’ school in the Badakhashan province

Female teachers are treated as if we were toys or mere pawns. One day, we are asked to sign, and the next day, we are told not to come to school. The frustration witnessed through the eyes of our students is beyond words, filled with sadness and resentment. This has been our reality for a year.

Shahira, a female teacher for 3 years in a secondary school in Balkh

Teachers should have the right to join a professional association or education union and the union should have a legal right to negotiate on behalf of teachers on all professional matters, on professional autonomy and freedom.

Hamidullah, a male teacher in an Islamic school in the Balkh province

All my 9th grade students are struggling under very difficult circumstances. I myself have a salary of 9,000 afghanis (123 USD). This is unsustainable. Life is very bitter for me and my family.