Embassy Hosts Afghan Students

January 9, 2012
Washington, DC

Eight Afghan journalists, who were visiting Washington DC as part of the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program, came to visit the Embassy of Afghanistan in Washington, DC on December 2, 2011. The journalists are traveling in the U.S. from November 28-December 16, 2011, to learn about investigative journalism.

On Friday, January 6, the Embassy of Afghanistan hosted students and staff members from the Initiative to Educate Afghan Women. The group included 28 Afghan women who are currently studying at universities in the U.S., as well as the organization's founder Paula Nirschel, and Risa Gilpin, the program coordinator. The group joined the Ambassador's wife, Mrs. Sultana Hakimi, diplomats, and embassy staff members for tea, snacks and conversation.

The Initiative to Educate Afghan Women helps coordinate scholarship opportunities for Afghan women at universities across the United States. The program mentors the students and provides important guidance during their four years at university. The goal of the program is to educate the next generation of Afghan women so that they can serve as leaders and contribute to their country's future development.

During the meeting, Mrs. Hakimi expressed how she believes that women, as 50% of the Afghan population, have a crucial role to play in Afghanistan's reconstruction. She also explained how quality education for young Afghans is the key to the country's future.

Mrs. Hakimi and the team at the Embassy of Afghanistan, look forward to increased engagement with the Initiative to Educate Afghan Women.