Her Path to Knowledge
With the return of the Taliban to power, Afghan women are denied access to education. We are working to recreate their path to knowledge.
Our Focus
The return of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan has led to the closure of schools and universities for girls and women, effectively denying half the population access to education. This silencing of women threatens to create a cycle of illiteracy and psychological distress that could last for generations. In response, we are a dedicated group of Afghan women and men who fled our homeland due to threats related to our cultural activities. Committed to making a difference, we have decided to use our personal resources to establish underground educational courses for marginalized women. Our programs focus on literacy, mathematics, English, and handicrafts. Through these efforts, we aspire to provide vital educational opportunities to the most disadvantaged girls and women, nurturing hope and resilience in a country in crisis.
Who we are?
Her Path to Knowledge is an Afghan non-profit organization dedicated to empowering girls and women by ensuring they have access to high-quality education, despite the significant barriers imposed by the Taliban regime. Our mission is rooted in the belief that education is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for change. We work tirelessly to create safe and supportive learning environments that enable marginalized girls and women to pursue their academic and personal goals.
Through innovative underground courses and partnerships with courageous educators, we strive to break the cycle of illiteracy and empower the next generation of Afghan women. By providing essential resources in literacy, mathematics, English, and handicrafts, we aim to equip these women with the skills they need to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities. Our commitment to education is unwavering, and we envision a country (Afghanistan) where every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. read more
What We Do?
Education is a fundamental right, yet Afghanistan remains the only country where women are barred from learning. This denial stifles individual potential and hinders societal progress.
We provide literacy classes, history lessons, mathematics and handicrafts training to empower women in Afghanistan. Our programs are designed to promote education and skills development, enabling women to thrive despite the challenges they face. These classes offer a vital escape, allowing them to discover their voices and unlock their potential.
1. Literacy Classes
Through our literacy classes, we empower women with essential reading and writing skills, fostering a love for literature and self-expression. Our curriculum not only teaches literacy basics but also encourages creativity and critical thinking.
2. History Classes
We provide history lessons focused on Afghanistan and the world, helping women understand their past and the context of current events. Afghan women are imprisoned in their homes, cut off from education and opportunities.
3. Mathematics Classes
Our mathematics classes empower women in Afghanistan by teaching essential skills for everyday life and future opportunities. Covering fundamental concepts such as arithmetic and problem-solving, these classes build confidence and enable practical applications, like managing finances and making informed decisions.
4. Handicrafts Classes
Our handicrafts classes provide Afghan women with valuable skills to create beautiful traditional dresses, bags, and shoes, allowing them to express their creativity while also generating income. These classes teach various techniques, including sewing, embroidery, and design, helping participants master the art of crafting high-quality handmade products that reflect Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage. read more
What We Teach?
We emphasize the importance of embracing diversity, recognizing that each person brings unique perspectives and experiences. Our teachings focus on the values of justice, democracy, and the right to express one’s thoughts freely, highlighting that no individual is inherently superior due to wealth, background, or beliefs.
We advocate for respectful dialogue and the significance of teamwork, encouraging collaboration to achieve shared objectives. Understanding and respecting all religions is fundamental, as we believe that faith should be a personal journey, free from coercion or exploitation.
Gender equality is a cornerstone of our teachings. We stand firmly against discriminatory practices and champion equal rights and opportunities for all, denouncing harmful traditions that limit women’s freedoms.
We promote a deep respect for life and the planet, urging individuals to recognize their role in fostering a sustainable future. Our curriculum encourages environmental stewardship and highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Ultimately, we prioritize peaceful coexistence, teaching that understanding and appreciating different cultures is essential for harmony. By instilling these values, we aim to inspire individuals to contribute positively to their communities and the world at large. Read More
Our founders
Parastou Ashori is an Afghan journalist and activist dedicated to advocating for women’s rights. As a resilient survivor of war, she co-founded the Her Path to Knowledge organization alongside Huma Rahimi, an exceptional Afghan musician.
Born in a small village in Badakhshan, Afghanistan, Parastou grew up in an environment where literacy was scarce, and there were no schools for girls. To provide better educational opportunities for her and her siblings, her family relocated to a city, becoming the first educated family in their village. Full Bio
Huma Rahimi is an Afghan musician and advocate for women’s empowerment. She trained in eastern classical music at the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM), specializing in sitar and vocal performance. She then pursued further studies at the Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi, India, earning a bachelor’s degree in Hindustani music with a focus on sitar. Full Bio