MAHMUDE RAQI (SW) – In Kapisa, a number of girls who can no longer pursue their education are shifting to agriculture and handicrafts as a means to escape unemployment following the closure of universities.
Roya, a resident of the provincial capital Mahmude Raqi, shared her experience: “After universities were closed to girls, I turned to sewing. Being the sole breadwinner for my family of nine, I learned sewing, embroidery, and handicrafts. I earn about 500 afghanis a day and urge aid organizations to support girls who have missed out on education.”
Another local, Bahara, has recently begun cultivating various vegetables to meet her family’s needs. “I have planted chili peppers, coriander, squash, mint, green beans, and okra. I sell these vegetables in the market and use the income to support my family. I encourage other girls to work towards improving their families’ economies.”
Mohammad Rahim Nomani, the head of Kapisa Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, reported that in collaboration with various organizations, they are providing training in standard agricultural methods for women.
“Thirty women have received technical training in dairy processing in the Nijrab district, while 355 others in the Hisa-e-Dowm and Alasai districts have been distributed vegetable seeds,” he said.
Economic expert Hakimullah Amini emphasized the need to create markets for women’s products. “Women engaged in agriculture need access to good markets. When they produce items, they should be provided with chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Supporting women farmers and other women can significantly boost family economies.”
Agricultural expert Abdul Aleem Osmani added, “Assistance from agricultural and non-agricultural institutions must be directed to those who truly need it. Awareness programs should be held to guide them in implementing these projects, ensuring that the products they produce have a market.”
Since the rise of the Islamic Emirate and the closure of universities to girls, many young girls have sought alternatives like carpet weaving, painting, handicrafts, and calligraphy to avoid unemployment and the pressures it brings.
