For the vast majority of young people in Kabul, (the capital of Afghanistan) employment prospects remain bleak. Many are returning with their families after years in refugee camps or have spent years struggling to survive in a city with few of the basics that we take for granted - such as a decent home, a safe environment to live in, electricity, running water, sanitation, regular food, a chance to go to school and get a job.

It’s difficult to get work in a country where 75% survive on less than a $1 a day. And if you can get work, much of it is in difficult and unsafe conditions and for long hours.

 

 

How the Scheme Works

 

Afghan Action offers young people in Kabul and from the surrounding areas, a unique opportunity to be trained and develop their skills so that they can become carpet weavers, and also to learn how to read and write.

Not only does this offer them a real chance to make something of their lives, it makes a real difference to their families by helping bring in essential income. The scheme also helps the local community by creating sustainable employment.

We aim to train at least 350 young people (14 – 25 years) over the next three years, many of whom have had little if any formal education or training.

We currently have 40 young people (most of whom were previously unemployed) undergoing a 6 month apprenticeship. As well as being paid a training allowance, they receive a nourishing midday meal, on site healthcare and free education to help them read and write. The Ministry of Education has accredited the education programme and now also provides two teachers in addition to our own.

Once our trainees graduate they have several options: some obtain employment in our carpet factory, where we seek to ensure safe working conditions, a fair wage and reasonable working hours - with lunch, education and on site healthcare; or they can work for another carpet business; or they can set up their own enterprise working from home.

 

You can learn more about the lives by viewing our case studies.

 

Sponsoring a trainee

 

We need sponsors for our trainees.  Individuals, organisations and companies can sponsor a trainee and in return receive a handmade carpet made by a trainee.

Look at the range of designs on our website to see what trainees are learning to produce.  Or phone us to arrange to see the carpets our trainees have made, after you have completed your sponsorship term. 

Please choose one of 4 options:

  *Pay the full amount, £360, and receive your carpet as soon as it is ready

  *£10 per month over 3 years
  *£15 per month over 2 years
  *£30 per month over 1 year

Full details of sponsoring are available on request admin@afghanaction.com. Tel: 020 3201 0049.

Standing order forms coming soon.