FAIZABAD, BADAKSHAN, AFGHANISTAN- On December 17, 2006 Baharak Girl’s School in Badakshan Province was officially opened by Munshi Abdul Majeed the Governor of Badakhshan Province, officials from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and other local dignitaries.

 

On December 17, 2006 Baharak Girl’s School in Badakshan Province was officially opened by Munshi Abdul Majeed the Governor of Badakhshan Province, officials from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and other local dignitaries.

 

"Providing education to the people in these areas is a priority for the Governmetn of Afghanistan," said the US official.  "These facilities are proof of that priority; they reinforce the significance of providing education for all with an emphasis on improving access for girls and young women."

 

Baharak School is one of eight schools constructed in Badakhshan Province.  This school will serve around 3000 girl students in three shifts. Baharak School was subcontracted to New Pamir Rehabilitation Board (NPRB), a local contractor that employed approximately 70 local construction workers.

 

In conjunction with the Ministry of Education and Health USAID continues to build and furnish schools and clinics in rural areas to provide easier access for greater numbers of students and patients. USAID has built or refurbished around 19 health facilities in Badakhshan Province. Since 2002, USAID has built or refurbished 622 schools and 624 clinics primarily in remote areas, in all 34 provinces.

 

The opening of Baharak School is another example of U.S. Government efforts in partnership with the Government of Afghanistan to improve the education of the people in Badakhshan.