NOORISTAN MOUNTAIN SCHOOL, 2009
Given the lack of assistance for education in Nooristan, one of the focuses of Nooristan Foundation (NF) is supporting schools in the province. NF began its work supporting two schools and a boarding school in 1999 and distributed assistance to these schools through its grant from the America’s Fund for Afghan Children from 2003-2004. NF is seeking to continue its efforts as education is one of the keys to building security and development in these remote areas.
In 2009, the first project that has been selected is establishment of a primary school in Pasigam Village, located in the Bargimatal district. NF has identified a local organization, Nuristan Mountain School (NMS), which will implement the school project. NF will monitor the project through it independent assessment approach. The school would benefit approximately 65 students in Grades 1-3, who cannot otherwise access an education because the nearest school is too far for them to reach.
NMS was established in 1998 to bring basic education to the Hindu Kush mountain areas of Afghanistan. NMS first started with teacher training and tailoring training for women and a tree planting project at various primary schools. The schools offer education to both girls and boys.
Currently, the schools that do exist in this area are open air schools held under trees. This is not possible in the winter and can be difficult even in other months. The community has asked for tents for the new primary school. The community would provide the land, pay 10% of the operating budget, and also provide security for the school. NF is seeking support to underwrite the establishment and operation of the new primary school in Pasigam Village for one year at a cost of $15,875 USD. The budget for additional years would be less as the cost of supplies would be reduced.
The hope is that someday all rural schools will be operated by the Government, but that time has not yet come. Currently, there are still two primary schools (Arangal and Pasigam) that need support until they are turned over to the Government. In the meantime, the curriculum would be provided to NMS by the Government, along with books. To supplement the basic program, NF has included art education and health and hygiene instruction.
A second phase of funding, if obtained, would be used to build a 4-6 room traditional school. NMS has built schools in the past and has used local materials such as wood and clay, including a joint system that withstands moderate earthquakes. The estimate is about $25,000-$30,000 for such a school to be built, which would take 6-8 months to complete. To promote local responsibility, the community would be required to provide land for school (which they have already agreed upon). Ten percent of the cost of construction and operations & maintenance would also come from the community.
Any organization or individual who would like to contribute to the Pasigam Village School project can make a secure online donation through the NF site. As NF values its donors, the site allows for selection of the project to which a contribution is made. Your assistance can make a difference in the lives of children who have suffered greatly from war and conflict.
