Australian Budget Cuts Threaten Education for

Girls in Afghanistan By Ehsan Bayat

Recently, Australia significantly reduced its budget for international aid, which could jeopardize education gains for girls in Afghanistan. Canberra-based CARE Australia has worked diligently for years to remove barriers to education that Afghan girls face. If the Australian government proceeds with its plans to reduce foreign aid by $7.6 billion, aid workers may find it difficult to continue in their efforts.

Since the inception of its education program in Afghanistan, CARE Australia has made significant headway. Since 1998, 135,000 students in some of the country’s most isolated areas have received basic education.

Introduction

Afghan girls who receive early education tend to stay in school and increase their potential for independent earning. Many of the program’s female students have expressed interest in become teachers or doctors.

Afghanistan finds itself at a critical juncture in its history. Combined with the withdrawal of combat troops, cutting funding might actually result in reversals of the gains made, especially considering the nation’s continued need for development.

Australian Budget Cuts