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Local province women address needs

  • Published
  • By Capt Toni Tones
  • 455 AEW/PA
KAPISA PROVINCE, Afghanistan --  The needs and issues of the Afghan women of the Kapisa Province were addressed for the first time Jan. 22 in an unprecedented meeting with the Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team. 

More than 20 women representing six districts in the province traveled various distances to not only bring their issues to the table, but viable solutions. 

"Women are an important part of society," said Capt. Erick Saks, Bagram PRT representative. "We'd never had a meeting with just the women. We want to give them a voice and take their issues to the government." 

The women's occupations ranged from lawyers to principals and teachers, to community and organization leaders. 

The Afghan women discussed various projects to include a women's park with a recreation area for the children, internment facilities in every district, and education trade centers where women can further their education and learn a trade. Some of the districts already have the land, but need help building the facilities. 

Another major concern was education. A female high-school principal addressed her issue of having enough students for 40 classes but only 12 classrooms. She stated the
students brought materials in and tried to build a tent, but the summer heat destroyed them. Her solution was to double the number of classrooms, so her students would have a welcoming learning environment. 

"Improving Afghan governance, infrastructure, and economy requires a concerted effort," added Saks. "Job skills and education are among the priorities we address. These women have the right vision; they just need some help getting there." 

The women had sketches of buildings and parks, detailed plans and new programs outlined, like a one-year English and computer course for 250-500 men and women for each district. 

Bagram PRT intends to continue these meetings on a regular basis.
One attendant stated that since women's issues have been neglected, the focus of any meeting they have will be on the women in the province and their needs. 

"When I was working in Gardez, we couldn't talk to the women at all," said Tech. Sgt. Buffie Verhagen, Bagram PRT member. "It's good to see women engaged and making a difference for future generations."