Panjshir PRT opens Bazarak Girls School Published May 3, 2007 By 2nd Lt. J.D. Griffin Panjshir Provincial Reconstruction Team PANJSHIR PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN -- The opening of Bazarak Girls School today was celebrated by the Governor, a provincial representative to the Afghan parliament, and an Afghan senator along with the Panjshir Provincial Reconstruction Team. The two-story building is the first school for girls in the province and provides education through the high school level. It will host a rotation of approximately 3,000 students annually in 16 classrooms with desks and blackboards. "Education is a priority for us," said Governor Haji Buhlol Bajig. "The children have been eager to learn, and now they have the proper environment to do so. It's been a pleasure working with the PRT. I hope the parliament members take this message back to the capitol. We're working hard here and we want more funding." The parliamentarian, senator, and other provincial leaders addressed the gathered crowd of more than 200 before cutting the ribbon. "If the girls are educated, then the mothers will be educated and the future of our children and our country will be different than years past," said Parliament Member Judge Rahala. "Islam emphasizes education and we cannot ignore half of the population." Panjshir's reputation for vigilance was noted by Lt. Col. Chris Luedtke, Panjshir PRT commander. "Panjshiris fought for Afghanistan, and now Panjshir fights for all children's education," said Colonel Luedtke. "This was a dream of Panjshiris, built by the hands of Panjshiris, and now it will be filled with Panjshiris."