Razia Jan, founder of Razia's Ray of Hope, joined our September 2 club meeting and provided an update on the schools for girls, which the organization runs in Afghanistan. The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley sponsored a global grant for a midwifery program at the Razia Jan Institute, and members have been concerned about the recent events in Afghanistan and the potential impact on the students. Since its opening in 2017, 40 girls have graduated from the midwifery program.
Razia said that all of the students and staff are safe and the district has not experienced any violence. Younger students (K-6) have already returned to school, and she was looking forward to the older students returning to their classes in the coming weeks. She shared three directives with the club: Never give up, always have hope, and stay positive.
When asked what our club could do to provide continued support, Razia said that donations to the organization help fund the salaries of 31 teachers, and they are often the main source of income for their extended families. The club also is continuing to sponsor a student. The yearly sponsorship of $420 covers all costs for attending school, including all books, uniform, bus rides, and winter clothes. You can make a donation or sponsor a student at raziasrayofhope.org.
