For 11-year-old Sadaf in western Afghanistan, school used to be a challenge beyond academics. Without clean toilets or running water, staying in class during her period was difficult. Like many girls, she faced barriers to education that went beyond books and lessons.
Thanks to a partnership between UNICEF and the European Union, Sadaf’s school now has clean toilets and access to water, making it easier for her and her classmates to stay in school. This initiative is part of a broader effort to rehabilitate 385 public primary schools across Afghanistan, ensuring safer and more supportive learning environments.
I am 11 years old now. I know there will be many changes in my body as I grow up, but I know it is normal. Some girls used to skip school, but now that we have clean toilets, we can easily wash ourselves. I love my school and I am very happy to come to class.
Afghanistan faces significant challenges in education, with less than half of children under 12 attending primary school and girls accounting for 60% of those who are out of school. Over half of schools lack clean drinking water, and one-third do not have functioning toilets.
Through this partnership, the EU and UNICEF are addressing these challenges by building and rehabilitating classrooms, installing essential water and sanitation systems, and training teachers to create inclusive and safe spaces. These efforts are transforming lives, enabling girls like Sadaf to focus on what truly matters: learning and securing a brighter future.