Graduates from Tinsmith vocational program earn tools for a chance at a better future

GHAZNI, AFGHANISTAN

10.05.2009

Story by Master Sgt. Sarah Webb 

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

GHAZNI PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Graduates of the tinsmith vocational educational program in Ghazni City earned their tools and a chance to better their future.

Thirty disabled beneficiaries, drawn from the National Disabled Association of Ghazni, completed the 90-day training course. The course is funded by the United States Agency for International Development, and implemented through the Afghan Amputee Bicyclists for Recreation and Rehabilitation.

The tinsmith vocational training was coordinated by the NDA, Department of Labor and Social Affairs, trade shuras, and other stakeholders.

Mohammad Mosa, amputee and graduate of the course, was referred to the NDA by DoLSA representatives. "The other students felt they couldn't do anything because they're disabled," said Mosa. "It's good to give them something to do."

"I've been waiting for this kind of future," says Mosa as he smiles and looks at his new tools. "This is going to be good for the others, to find something for their lives."

The DoLSA programs are not designed solely for men. There are 12 female NDA members waiting for classes to be created for them.

"The program is trying to put together classes for the women such as computer training and tailoring," said Mosa. "This is the first time we've done a vocational program geared specifically towards disabled students," said USAID representative Michael Torreano, Ghazni field program officer and member of Ghazni PRT.

The vocational education is coupled with local apprenticeships in the general cottage industry to facilitate the training-to-work transition.

"Although the training doesn't always result in immediate livelihood, we're still hopeful," said Torreano. "We're looking into the possibility of the graduates being able to open their own shops with our assistance. This will give them the opportunity to provide for themselves and their families."

USAID is an independent U.S. federal government agency that receives overall foreign policy guidance from the Secretary of State. USAID supports long-term and equitable economic growth while advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives by supporting economic growth, agriculture and trade, global health and, democracy, conflict prevention, and humanitarian assistance.

Ghazni PRT works with USAID and the Department of State to create and advance educational and vocational training programs, GIRoA legitimacy, economic growth, and development.

• Date Taken: 10.05.2009
• Date Posted: 10.11.2009 14:57
• Story ID: 39953
• Location: GHAZNI, AF