Education International

ATROAfghan Teachers' Rights Observatory

Testimony

Mawlana, a male teacher for 3 years in a secondary boys’ school in Samangan

In recent months, the situation has not been easy. Although I have received my salary, it is insufficient and does not reflect all the work I do. What is more, in the region where I work, the economy is in a bad situation, travel is difficult and there is no accommodation for teachers.

What gives me energy is seeing how important education is for Afghan citizens. I am totally in favour of girls being able to go to school and women being able to teach like men. I am a member of a trade union and I see what they do to defend teachers like me. It would be nice if unions were really considered and could negotiate better working conditions for all teachers.

More Testimonies

Simin, female, has been teaching for 18 years in a primary girls' school in Herat

I became a member of a teacher union because professional representation is crucial. However, our current circumstances are challenging, and I find myself extremely unhappy.

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

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.

Anonymous

Although the Taliban’s education minister had promised that Afghan teachers’ salaries would increase, there are many problems. The Taliban’s policy of not allowing male teachers to teach girls and female teachers to teach boys has made things worse.