Issue 12
Education in exile
The inspiring story of the ‘ Afghan Dreamers ’
The ' Afghan Dreamers ', an all-girls robotics team from Herat , Afghanistan , have captured hearts and minds with their remarkable journey of determination and success in the face of severe obstacles .
Founded in 2017 , the team first made global headlines by winning a special award at the FIRST Global Robotics Competition in Washington , DC .
When the political situation in Afghanistan deteriorated in August 2021 , the Dreamers were in dire need of emergency support . The team ' s parent organisation , the US-based Digital Citizen Fund , sought Qatar ’ s assistance just three days before the Taliban took control of Kabul .
Recognising the urgency of the situation , Qatar swiftly organised a flight for the girls to Doha , expedited their visas , and ensured they were safely evacuated . The Government of Qatar , alongside Qatar Foundation , provided logistical support to ensure a smooth transition for the talented girls as they left their home country to continue their studies .
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