AFF, EAA, and IIE Discuss Afghan Refugee Education. New York: In a crucial event held during the United Nations General Assembly, the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, the Institute of International Education (IIE), and the Afghan Future Fund (AFF) came together to shed light on their ongoing efforts to provide educational opportunities to Afghan refugees.
The gathering on September 24 was a significant step in addressing the challenges faced by Afghan refugees in accessing higher education and how international collaborations can shape a brighter future for these marginalized individuals.
The event began with welcoming remarks from Jonah Kokodyniak, Executive Vice President of IIE, setting the tone for an insightful and impactful discussion. Following his remarks, keynote addresses were delivered by prominent representatives, including members of the US Department of State, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other organizations deeply involved in educational advocacy.
AFF, EAA, and IIE Discuss Afghan Refugee Education
Among the distinguished guests were H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, Minister of State at Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Lolwah Rashid Mohammed Al Khater, Minister of State for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their presence, alongside US dignitaries such as Under Secretary for Political Affairs John Bass and former New Jersey Congressman Tom Malinowski, underscored the global commitment to ensuring education for Afghan refugees.
One of the key themes emphasized during the event was the critical importance of providing educational opportunities to Afghan refugee youth, particularly women and girls. This emphasis reflects a broader understanding of education as a tool not only for individual empowerment but also for national and global development.
Qatar Scholarship for Afghan Project (QSAP) as a Beacon of Hope
A centerpiece of the event was the Qatar Scholarship for Afghan Project (QSAP), which showcased successful partnerships between the State of Qatar and various public and private sectors in the United States. These collaborations are focused on empowering Afghan refugees, with a particular emphasis on ensuring that Afghan women, girls, and young men can access quality education.
In her keynote speech, H.E. Lolwah Rashid Mohammed Al Khater reaffirmed Qatar’s unwavering commitment to this cause, stating, “Qatar is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that every young Afghan, especially women and girls, have access to the transformative power of education. Education is a universal right, and Qatar, through our partnership with the US and other international stakeholders, will continue to be steadfast in its efforts to empower Afghan youth, safeguard their educational opportunities, and invest in their potential.”
This sentiment was echoed by Under Secretary Bass, who reiterated the US State Department’s support for QSAP, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration to ensure Afghan women and girls not only have the opportunity to learn but also the power to shape their own futures.
Insights from Key Stakeholders and Experts
The event also featured a panel discussion that explored the profound impact of educational programs like QSAP. Panelists included influential figures such as Fahad Al Sulaiti, CEO of EAA; Dr. Allan Goodman, CEO of IIE; Vance Serchuk, Chairman of the Board of AFF; and Rina Amiri, US Special Envoy for Afghan Women, Girls, and Human Rights. Their collective insights underscored the multifaceted role education plays in providing hope, resilience, and empowerment to Afghan refugees.
Notably, Shahzad Ahmad, Associate Vice President at the Center for International Studies, St. Cloud State University, and Arezo Kohistany, Board Member of AFF, also shared their experiences in supporting Afghan students. The panel discussion highlighted how these educational initiatives not only provide academic opportunities but also create a foundation for stability and peace in Afghanistan and beyond.
EAA’s Role in Global Educational Initiatives
Building on the EAA Foundation’s broader mission, Talal Al Hothal, Director of the Al Fakhoora programme at EAA, highlighted the foundation’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the right to education for marginalized youth globally. He noted that the Al Fakhoora program has provided over 10,800 scholarships in 10 countries, making a significant impact on vulnerable populations.
In his remarks, Al Hothal emphasized the transformative nature of education for Afghan refugees, saying, “Education is more than a pathway to personal achievement for Afghan refugees — it is the foundation for resilience, hope, and global prosperity. Investing in their education today paves the way for a more resilient and prosperous future for Afghanistan and the world.”
The Importance of International Collaboration
The collaboration between EAA, IIE, and AFF underscores the necessity of international partnerships in preserving the right to education for Afghans. These partnerships are not only about offering scholarships but also about creating sustainable pathways to education that can endure despite the ongoing challenges in Afghanistan. The global focus on ensuring that Afghan refugees, particularly women and girls, have access to education is critical for fostering long-term stability and progress in the region.
As global challenges continue to mount, events like this provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss effective strategies and share success stories. The efforts made by Qatar, the United States, and international organizations reflect a shared responsibility to protect the rights of marginalized populations and ensure that education remains accessible to all, regardless of circumstances.
Conclusion
The United Nations General Assembly event, hosted by EAA, IIE, and AFF, highlighted the powerful impact that education can have on the lives of Afghan refugees. By providing access to higher education, particularly for women and girls, these initiatives are paving the way for a more prosperous and stable Afghanistan.
The partnerships between Qatar, the United States, and various educational organizations are a testament to the global commitment to education as a universal right. Through these efforts, Afghan refugees are not only gaining the tools they need to succeed academically but also the hope and resilience necessary to rebuild their futures.
As the world continues to face complex humanitarian challenges, the role of education in empowering individuals and strengthening communities has never been more critical. By investing in the education of Afghan refugees today, the international community is laying the groundwork for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.