When you first meet Fatima Kamandi you immediately notice her ambition and intelligence. A Literature and Spanish graduate from Kabul University, Ms. Kamandi is currently enrolled at Symbiosis International University in India, where she is pursuing a graduate degree in international relations. Ms. Kamandi has a knack for languages and dreams of one day becoming a diplomat or an ambassador representing Afghanistan.

Ms. Kamandi is a married mother of two young children. While working as a translator at the Spanish Embassy in Kabul, she acknowledged that she “was eagerly searching for a chance to continue my studies. When I was accepted to a graduate program in Spain, I could not accept the offer because my husband was not allowed to travel with me.” Fortunately, Ms. Kamandi heard about the USAID Promote Master's Scholarship and was accepted into the program. This opportunity allowed her to travel to India with her family to pursue a Master’s degree and moved her one step closer to achieving her lifelong goal.

Through the USAID-funded Promote Women Scholarship program, The Asia Foundation (TAF) supports eligible and deserving young women with academic potential from economically disadvantaged families to pursue higher education at national universities in Afghanistan and international universities in India. A unique feature of the program is that it does not disadvantage married women with children, and allows them to pursue their studies in India alongside their families. Fatima’s story echoes the experiences and reality of many other women scholars who are currently in India pursuing their master’s degree as well.

USAID and TAF extended international study opportunities to 149 Afghan women who are currently enrolled at 13 Grade “A” accredited universities. When they return, these women may serve as the future leaders and change agents contributing to greater gender equality and empowerment in Afghanistan.

“Right now, I am doing my best to achieve my goals and my kids and husband have been very supportive. I understand that this stage of my life will be very challenging, but I want to encourage other women to fol-low their goals and make their dreams a reality!” Said Ms. Fatima Kamandi.