Currently, there is very little value placed on a science education in Afghanistan. In addition, science is not considered a subject for women to study, and they are generally discouraged from pursuing an education or degree science-related subjects.

Zohra Muqbil, a computer science student at Shaikh Zahid University in Khost, would like to encourage more women to get involved in science. Ms. Muqbil recently completed her secondary studies at Hassanzai Girls’ High School where she discovered an interest in science. USAID’s Strengthening Education in Afghanistan (SEA) II project, implemented by The Asia Foundation (TAF), selected her school for a science model program and provided modern lab equipment, classroom furniture, solar panels, and preparation guides for the Kankor – the national public university entrance examination.

Ms. Muqbil acknowledges, “I am very thankful for the generous support from USAID and The Asia Foundation for providing such a unique opportunity for us to study science and mathematics.”

The SEA-II science project supports the General Directorate of Science and Educational Technology (GDSET) within the Ministry of Education to improve access to and strengthen the quality of science education in Afghanistan. Eight regional GDSET Centers of Excellence have been established in the provinces, including Khost. The GDSET activity aims to improve the technical capacity of academic members in the areas of science, mathematics, English, computer literacy, and research. The ultimate goal is to develop strong provincial academic members and trainers to be confident in the subjects listed above and encourage more female participation in STEM subjects.

“With support from the SEA-II project, I improved my English speaking, reading and writing skills. In addition, I can complete most work on a computer, including developing training materials and conducting online searches. In the long run, these skills are helping me prepare to pursue my master’s degree.” Said Ms. Muqbil.