Education International

ATROAfghan Teachers' Rights Observatory

Testimony

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

In the past year (testimony from April 2023), I received only partial payments of my salary, and my meager income is insufficient for basic living expenses.

Teachers have never been highly esteemed in this society. 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.

More Testimonies

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.

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.

Seyed, a male teacher for over 20 years in a secondary boys’ school in Herat

I was happy when I was teaching the upper classes, but I have now been at home for the past two years. I firmly believe that girls should have the right to education and female teachers should be allowed to teach boys.