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June 27, 2012
 

Afghan National Security Force Works to Boost Literacy

Afghan National Flag

Members of the Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) are undertaking a huge project: they are boosting their literacy as an organization. Since 2010, they have been working to increase literacy internally as roughly 95% of those recruited are illiterate and have never attended school. In comparison, Afghanistan has a literacy rate of 37%.

One third of the ANSF is currently enrolled in reading lessons, around 119,000 people out of a total of 343,000. Roughly 3,000 teachers have been hired for the $200 million program, all teaching classes of around 30. Beginner courses teach recruits how to count to 1,000 and write their own names, and the most advanced courses bring recruits up to a level equivalent to third grade in Afghan schools.

The program is aimed to help recruits become proficient in all areas of their new jobs. The recruits seem excited about learning more and becoming literate, and many plan to bring their knowledge back to their families and communities, as was reported by the Defense Video and Imagery Distribution System.

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About the Author

Susie Hufford
Susie Hufford
I'm a rising senior at Mount Holyoke College studying English and Gender Studies. I have a passion for education and learning, and will most likely seek teacher licensure in the U.S. at some point after graduation. I'm a feminist who is interested in the mechanics of oppression, social justice, and intersectionality.



 
 

 
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