We provide offline learning through computer libraries we've established in Afghanistan. Our seventh just opened and they must turn children away at the door. The children who want to use the library far surpasses its capacity.  So, we're looking for another room in the area to add another.  

          

     One thing I have learned over the past thirteen years is Afghans know the value of an education. Their children are, as Khaled Hosseini said, "thirsty for knowledge". Motivation is not a problem.  There are of course exceptions. We did drop one student from our sponsorship program for not performing in school.  He was, according to his mother, "lazy". We gave him fair warning and he still chose to be "lazy". School is not for everyone. 

    

Beautiful isn't it? Thank you Basir      Our libraries now contain 1,000 Khan Academy math videos translated into Dari and so many fun, entertaining and educational Youtube videos we've lost count. Please keep sending me Youtube videos you think we should add.

     This year we're focusing on producing English language lesson videos which will be valuable everywhere in the world, including the United States. English is the "money language". Know it and you will have better and more job opportunities, particularly in the developing countries. 

    
      We haven't abandoned traditional education. We employ twenty one teachers who offer after school and winter break classes attended by well over one thousand students, more than half of whom are girls.  Teachers earn $150 a month. The cost of wood to heat a class during the winter costs $105 a month. There was a time when the cost of wood was more than a teacher. Thanks to you, we've been able to raise salaries.

Happy New Year again. These photos made my day!

Budd