Why an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s help.
When the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan two years ago, Ameena was shattered that girls were no longer allowed to study at high school.
“Things were so different,” she said on a scratchy WhatsApp call from Kabul. “I felt hopeless. I thought that was the end; that we didn’t have anything left to do.
“I thought of killing myself. But as time has passed, I’ve realised that no-one can stop your learning.”
Ameena, whose name has been changed because of the danger if she were to be identified, has found a way to study even at the risk of punishment by Taliban hardliners. She and about 25 other teenage girls and young women are members of an underground book club.
The 19-year-old said they meet at a different school every Thursday to read books, help each other with difficult passages and discuss ideas.
It has allowed her to dream of having a career despite women’s rights being brutally wound back in Afghanistan.
Authorities have made head-to-toe clothing mandatory, decreed that women cannot travel beyond short distances without being accompanied by a close male relative and banned them from secondary schools, universities, jobs at aid organisations, libraries, public parks, gyms, swimming pools and beauty salons.
Families are reportedly forcing more girls into early marriages because they cannot get an education or a job.
But the resourceful Ameena goes online to give free English lessons to almost 1000 girls, teaches classes in digital marketing and graphic design, and studies for a bachelor of business administration at the American University of the People.
“My great ambition is to become a businesswoman and to provide education for Afghan women and other ones that are not able to continue their education,” she said in exemplary English that she has learnt from books and YouTube videos in the past three years.
But such are the risks for young women that Ameena has not even told her protective father what she does on Thursdays.
Australian-based non-profit organisation World Literacy Foundation is working to supply e-books to the estimated 3000 Afghans who rely on these secret meetings to keep learning.
“Access to books is absolutely vital for their growth in imagination, curiosity and education,” said chief executive Andrew Kay, who started the foundation in 2011. “They’re really restricted in their choice of books, so we’re hoping to open up the floodgates.”
Kay said the rise of underground book clubs showed the spirit of Afghan girls in a hostile environment. Supplying e-books helped them feel supported by an international community rather than isolated in their own country.
Ameena, who is an ambassador for the foundation in Kabul, loves reading as much as many teenagers in wealthier countries.
“It’s unexplainable how you feel reading your favourite book,” she said. “Whenever I’m reading, I just lose myself and forget about the world around me and just focus on the book. I can’t even hear people talking around me.”
While Ameena would love more novels, self-improvement has been driving her reading lately. She is currently enjoying The Psychology of Money, and her all-time favourite book is Atomic Habits, which she has read four times.
“I’m the kind of person that doesn’t let anyone stop me from education,” she said. “I teach online, I study online. I don’t let them stop me.”
Why an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s help
Why an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s help
Tower of Babel
A life Why an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s help Why an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s helphttps://worldliteracyfoundation.org/ IWhy an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s help
Why an Afghan teenager’s underground book club needs Australia’s help
Iran Has Around
Afghanistan Literacy Crisis
Healthcare is a fundamental aspect of our lives
Medibank private health insurance is a fundamental aspect of our lives, and having adequate health insurance is crucial to ensure our well-being in times of need. Private health insurance, such as Bupa Health Cover, plays a significant role in this domain. This essay delves into understanding health insurance, particularly focusing on Bupa Health Cover, along with related legal aspects like Medicare Levy Surcharge, workcover, lawyers, and the importance of travel insurance.
Health Insurance: A Prerequisite for Comprehensive Healthcare Health insurance is a contract between a policyholder and an insurance provider that offers financial coverage for medical and surgical expenses incurred by the insured. It helps in alleviating the financial burden associated with healthcare services, making quality healthcare accessible and affordable.
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Medicare Levy Surcharge: An Incentive for Private Health Insurance In Australia, the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) is an additional tax imposed on individuals and families without private hospital cover. The surcharge is aimed at encouraging higher-income earners to take up private health insurance and reduce the burden on the public healthcare system.
Workers' Compensation and Workcover Workcover, particularly in Queensland (QLD), is a vital aspect of the Australian healthcare and legal framework. It provides financial support and assistance to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. This initiative ensures that employees are protected and supported in case of accidents or health issues arising from their workplace in Queensland workcover.
Lawyers and Legal Assistance In the context of health and work-related matters, lawyers play a crucial role. They provide legal assistance and representation to individuals dealing with health insurance claims, workers' compensation, or any legal issues arising from their workplace. Lawyers, such as those at Shine Lawyers, specialize in workers' compensation and related legal matters, ensuring justice and fair treatment for their clients.
Travel Insurance: An Extension of Health Cover bupa health cover and similar offerings by other providers ensure that individuals have adequate coverage for medical emergencies while traveling. It provides peace of mind by covering medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost belongings, and other unforeseen events during travels.
Health insurance, whether private or public, is an essential component of a well-rounded healthcare plan. Bupa Health Cover and other private health insurance providers offer a wide array of plans to cater to various needs. Legal aspects like the Medicare Levy Surcharge, workers' compensation, and the role of lawyers further augment the healthcare landscape, ensuring that individuals are well protected and supported in times of need. Additionally, travel insurance acts as an extension of health cover, providing comprehensive protection beyond borders. Understanding and investing in appropriate health coverage is a prudent decision for a secure and healthy future.
DETNSW as department of education in NSW
The Department of Education (DETNSW) oversees education policies and initiatives in New South Wales, Australia. Its scope extends to various educational entities, including IKON Education and Top Teacher, aiming to enhance teaching practices and support teachers. Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is a fundamental framework shaping early childhood education. Teachers play a vital role in schools and colleges, focusing on the holistic development of students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) is emphasized to prepare students for various professions. In the educational landscape, private and primary schools, available in proximity, contribute to accessible education opportunities for students.
In Australia, private schools and primary schools play a significant role in the education system, offering diverse learning environments and educational approaches. Private schools are independent institutions that are privately funded and managed. These schools often have a particular educational philosophy, specialized programs, and smaller class sizes. They provide a range of educational opportunities and extracurricular activities.
Private schools can be religious-based, catering to a specific faith, or non-denominational, offering a more general approach to education. They are known for their strong academic standards, well-qualified teachers, and excellent facilities. Additionally, private schools often emphasize character development, sports, arts, and community involvement.
On the other hand, primary schools in Australia are the foundational level of education, typically covering grades from Kindergarten to Year 6. Primary schools focus on establishing a strong educational base for students, encompassing subjects like English, mathematics, science, and social studies. They aim to foster a love for learning and build essential skills and knowledge in young learners.
For individuals seeking educational options, it's essential to research and locate private schools and primary schools in their vicinity. Many online directories and government websites provide information about schools, including their programs, facilities, and academic performance. Prospective students and their families often visit schools, attend open houses, and engage with the school community to determine the best fit for their educational needs and preferences.
The availability of private schools and primary schools in Australia offers a wide array of choices for parents and students, allowing them to select an institution that aligns with their educational goals and values. These schools contribute significantly to the overall educational landscape, shaping the academic and personal development of countless students across the country.
DETNSW as department of education in NSW
Goodwill is a spirit of benevolence and compassion that thrives in charity shops and op shops near me, known as 'opshops.' These establishments serve as crucial hubs for community engagement and philanthropy. Op shops, short for 'opportunity shops,' are retail stores run by charitable organizations. They sell pre-loved items generously donated by individuals and aim to fund various community welfare projects.
Among the well-known charitable organizations is the Salvation Army, often referred to as 'Salvos.' They extend their reach not only through physical stores but also via Salvos Shop Online, making charitable shopping accessible to a broader audience. Many opshops, including Salvos, have embraced the digital era, establishing online op shops, amplifying their impact and further promoting the culture of giving.
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In essence, goodwill manifests through the selfless acts of donating to and shopping from charity shops and op shops. The funds generated contribute to various charitable initiatives, embodying the spirit of giving back to society and fostering a sense of community and support for those in need.
Donation boxes and clothing donation containers are vital channels for contributing to charity and nonprofit organizations conveniently. They can be found near communities, encouraging individuals to participate in acts of generosity. Whether it's providing pre-loved clothing, household items, or contributing to humanitarian causes, donation boxes facilitate the process and promote giving within local neighborhoods.
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Charity shops near me, an extension of the donation ecosystem, provide opportunities to purchase second-hand items, promoting sustainability and fundraising for charitable endeavors. The introduction of the 'donation dollar,' a specially designed Australian coin, encourages monetary donations, reinforcing the culture of giving.
Clothes donation, a common practice, is facilitated by the presence of donation boxes and clothing containers, fostering a sense of community and altruism. Overall, these donation avenues embody the spirit of compassion, amplifying the collective impact of individuals contributing to the welfare of society.