KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 14, 2005 — A pack of pink drawing paper, a set of multi-colored pencils and a backpack was all it took to put a smile on one student's face in Afghanistan.
"While the Taliban was in power, girls were not allowed to go to school. The school was founded to help the disabled and girls get their education. These gifts will help the students in their progress."
Suraya Omeri, School Director |
The student, Shkiba, was one of almost 250 in the Professional and Learning Foundation School for the Disabled and Girls, to receive school supplies and shirts with the colors of the Afghan flag. Afghan National Army soldiers distributed school supplies to students of the school here in Kabul, Afghanistan, Dec. 8. The school was chosen in recognition for the International Day of the Disabled, which was observed Dec. 3.
The soldiers are part of the Directorate of Cultural and Religious Affairs, and the supplies were donated from Combined Forces Command-Afghanistan and the United States Agency for International Development with participation from the International Security Assistance Force.
Sayed Mohmmad Hadi Hadi, Deputy Minister of Martyrs and Disabled, also handed out supplies to the students.
During his speech, Hadi said, "I am thankful for the cooperation and coordination from [International Security Assistance Force] and [Combined Forces Command-Afghanistan]. I am also thankful for the donations for the students and disabled."
Suraya Omeri, director of the school, also expressed appreciation for the donations. "While the Taliban was in power, girls were not allowed to go to school. The school was founded to help the disabled and girls get their education," said Omeri. "These gifts will help the students in their progress."
Students shared their thoughts with the deputy minister and director as they shook hands and acknowledged their thanks for the gifts. |