Education International

ATROAfghan Teachers' Rights Observatory

Testimony

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

I have been teaching English, history, geography, and Dari in this school as a volunteer for three years. Despite not receiving salary, I always tried to be able to convey what I know to others. While I am passionate about teaching, I aspire to secure regular pay, improved working conditions, and job security.

In addition to financial considerations, I think that teachers should be able to participate in educational policy decision making. 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.

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Abdul, a male teacher for 15 years in a boys’ school in Balkh

I am proud of being a teacher because we have a sacred duty, but we are not considered with respect. I am also very angry that the girls' schools have been closed, as I firmly believe in every girl's right to education.

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Anonymous, female teacher

As a teacher, I have seen many problems with my own eyes. In the republican system, my life and that of all female teachers was in danger. Teachers were threatened with death and acid was thrown on them.

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Freba, a female teacher in a girls’ school in Balkh

Over the last two years, women in our country have encountered unprecedented restrictions, revealing a stark disregard for our humanity. Through our union we call for improved basic pay, professional autonomy, and enhanced social security.

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