UNICEF in Afghanistan

Saving lives, changing lives
by Jill Tardiff, New York

On March 9 WNBA representatives attended a breakfast organized by the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. The theme of the meeting was "education as a catalyst for rebuilding Afghanistan." More than 35 people were there, most notably representatives of NGOs (nongovernmental organizations) with an interest in girls' and women's issues, including the American Association of University Women, the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, the Girl Scouts of America, the League of Women Voters of the United States and the National Association of Women Business Owners.

Chief of Education/UNICEF-Afghanistan Richard Navarro was the guest speaker. His topic was universal education, specifically "Why is education an instrument of change?" and "What roles does education play in rebuilding a nation?"

Did you know that UNICEF has more than 50 years of experience in Afghanistan and has never left the country in time of conflict? That UNICEF has a field presence nationwide enabling it to mobilize rapidly and work constructively with the local villages. Guided by a noncontroversial agenda, UNICEF works with the revamped Ministry of Education, "creating peace through education" and "ensuring survival-and equal protection" for girls and women. UNICEF faces monumental challenges. Barriers like inadequate sanitation and facilities, teacher gender and recruitment issues, school costs and personal security impede progress.

What does the immediate future hold for UNICEF's education program in Afghanistan? Officials have designated two goals: (1) universal access, with the enrollment of girls in formal and community-based schools increasing by 1 million and (2) systematic reform to improve quality. UNICEF will help the Ministry of Education plan, develop policy and manage programs.

What role can American professional women play in advancing the education of young girls in Afghanistan? Considering the monies that are required, financial support seems the obvious answer. In pondering our role in this effort, as a partner with the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, let us imagine our own lives without pencil or pen, without tablet or book. In those images, we as true bookwomen may find our response.

The Bookwoman Needs You
Spring 2004 marks the final issue produced by the current staff of The Bookwoman: two co-editors and a production manager who handles the layout. These positions are now open to any WNBA member. The Bookwoman is published three times per year. Duties of the editors include planning the editorial calendar, communicating with the national board and chapters, writing articles as needed, and editing and proofreading each issue. The production manager is responsible for the layout, production and printer prep.

If you would like an opportunity to serve WNBA on a national level and showcase your writing, layout or editorial skills in The Bookwoman, please contact Sharon Goldinger (pplspeak@norcov.com, 949-581-6190) or Debbie Gisonni (debbieg@reallifelessons.com, 650-368-1071).