Implementing organisation: UNDP

Duration: 2021-2027

Project budget: € 4 million

Project partners: UNDP, UN Women, EU, Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ministries of Education

Location: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan

Contract number: ACA/2021/423-885

Project Description:

Launched in 2021, this project expands an ongoing EUR 2 million cooperation program aimed at enhancing the resilience and empowerment of vulnerable women in Afghanistan. It focuses on their academic, economic, and social development by providing education and training in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan in the new phase. The goal is for 105 Afghan women to graduate with higher and professional education from Central Asian universities by 2027.

Main target group:

Afghan women

Achievements to date:

Since the launch of Phase II of the programme, 48 Afghan women have obtained academic degrees in 2023 (27 in Almaty and 14 in Bishkek) and in 2024 (7 in Bishkek).

Expected results by May 2027:

— The participants underwent a foundation training in academic language and cultural studies.

— 105 Afghan women are set to receive scholarships to study at Central Asian universities, improve their language skills during foundation training, and complete their studies.

— Extra-curricular activities, such as Summer and Winter Schools, will be organized to support Afghan women in enhancing their leadership and communication skills. The program will train the participants to pursue job opportunities, create compelling CVs and cover letters, and effectively negotiate with potential employers.