KABUL, May 31 (Xinhua) — As the school day ends, 10-year-old Aisha returns home and sits by the doorway, watching the narrow alley outside. She waits for her father, hoping he may bring notebooks or pencils in a plastic bag.
In a family of eight, where her father earns daily wages pushing a handcart in Kabul, every afghani matters. Aisha says school supplies are often unaffordable. “Sometimes my father cannot find work. Then I carry my books in a plastic bag because we cannot afford a school bag,” she said.
Despite hardships, she remains determined. “I want to become a doctor,” she said.
Her story reflects Afghan children pursuing education amid poverty and uncertainty. For families, schooling remains a hope for a better future.
Afghanistan’s education sector, weakened by decades of conflict, still faces major challenges. Many schools lack basic facilities, with nearly half without clean water, sanitation or heating.
Thirteen-year-old Zabiullah, recently returned from Pakistan, is eager to resume studies. “I am happy to be back. My parents encourage me to study hard,” he said.
Another student, Saifullah, said family difficulties affect his concentration due to worries about housing and livelihood.
Eight-year-old Sana also faces hardship, as her mother is ill and her father searches daily for work. “I want to grow up quickly and help pay for my mother’s treatment,” she said.