2011-06-08 15:08:25

“Tired of the war, young Afghans dream of education,” says Jesuit priest.


(June 08, 2011) “Young Afghans are tired of the current warring situation in the country and want a life of peace and security,” said a Jesuit priest. “Afghan children dream about education and hope that one day, their nation will be united and on the path to peace” said Fr. Stan Fernandes, a priest from the Jesuit Province of Pune, Maharashtra - India, who for the last five years, has been in charge of the Jesuit Refugee Service , JRS - in Afghanistan. In that period, he has promoted small initiatives in favor of education for youth of different ages. Afghans between the ages of 12 and 25 represent 68 per cent of the population, yet few have an opportunity to go to school. Some of the young female students who attend school said -“Young people like us will lead the country one day. This generation, which experienced conflict and exile, needs to be empowered, in order to focus their energies, enthusiasm and potential to promote peace and development in Afghanistan.” Fr. Fernandes said “The reputation of Jesuits in offering first class education is well known. It has enabled us to build bridges of understanding and trust between our institutions and local authorities.” Despite their small number, Jesuits have made a significant contribution in the past five years in terms of both short and long-term projects. By training local teachers and staff, including at the university level, they have improved the lives of the most marginalized young people.








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