1,000 days since the Taliban banned girls from attending secondary school, over a million girls remain without education, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) stated on June 14.

Over 40 Afghan girls have moved to Rwanda to continue their education since early 2023, according to the IOM statement.

"The journey of these girls is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support, education for youth can flourish even during the most challenging circumstances", Ash Carl, IOM Chief of Mission in Rwanda, was quoted as saying in the statement.

Over one year has passed since the first group of students arrived in Rwanda under the partnership between the School of Leadership, Afghanistan (SOLA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

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The agreement between IOM and SOLA

An agreement signed in 2023 between IOM and SOLA ensures that new students receive travel assistance to Rwanda to further their education at SOLA's campus.

"In the face of adversity and the denial of education for girls in Afghanistan, SOLA remains a sanctuary of learning and hope. We are not just countering the narrative of oppression; we are rewriting it with every girl who learns, leads, and dreams of a peaceful Afghanistan", the statement quoted Shabana Basij-Rasikh, SOLA's Co-Founder, as saying.

She stressed the importance of continuing to invest in Afghan women and girls. While the journey and transition can be an emotional rollercoaster, IOM said staff escorting the students and the SOLA community do everything possible to ease the transition.

Reflecting on the past year, a student described her experience: "Joining SOLA was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. They welcomed me into a community of love and support, built by amazing young women who are keen to learn."

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Over 2,000 applications for the incoming class of 2024

As the SOLA community in Rwanda grows, over 100 Afghan female scholars who arrived in 2021 are now mentoring new students, IOM said.

These trailblazers guide their peers through the transition, sharing their experiences of adapting to a new life and academic challenges in Rwanda. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of SOLA, where every student is committed to supporting one another, the UN agency noted.

Their journey symbolizes not just a physical transition, but a transformative educational experience that continues to underpin their growth as future leaders. IOM noted their resilience and dedication to learning.

With restrictions on women's rights in Afghanistan intensifying, more Afghan girls are in need of education. SOLA has received over 2,000 applications for the incoming class of 2024.

SOLA said it welcomes applications from Afghan girls who are passionate about leadership and education, per the statement. Potential students and their families can learn more about the application process by visiting the SOLA website. SOLA also offers free education through its digital platform SOLAx, which requires only a smartphone and basic internet access.

IOM said it remains committed to supporting regular pathways for migration, reaffirming both organizations' commitment to education and opportunity for Afghan girls.

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