DVV International in Afghanistan

Since 2005, DVV International has partnered with the Afghan National Association for Adult Education (ANAFAE) in Afghanistan, embracing the conviction that education is not just a service, but a lifelong journey. Our mission and vision, “Education for everyone. Worldwide. Lifelong.”, guide our work in supporting sustainable adult-learning structures, and in creating learning spaces where hope, agency and transformation can take root. 
Together with ANAFAE, we have built pathways that reach beyond formal schooling: people who missed earlier opportunities are now stepping into new chapters of their lives. Rural women learning tailoring and business skills. Youth discovering digital literacy. Communities opening their doors to lifelong learning.

Our focus areas include:

• Empowering adults and youth with literacy and non-formal education to reclaim their learning journeys.
• Offering technical and vocational education and training (TVET) that align with real-world markets, from IT and administration to handicrafts and trades.
• Fostering entrepreneurship and self-employment so learners can turn skills into livelihood.
• Professionalizing adult education through the training of educators, revitalizing traditional apprenticeship systems, and strengthening coordination among learning providers.
• Championing advocacy and networking, for instance through the formation of the Afghanistan National Education Coalition (ANEC), to ensure the right to learning is recognized, defended and promoted across society.

Since the start of the partnership, we have supported more than two million learners. Many have entered the labour market, created their own businesses or become active in community development. One standout story: Ms Roqia, a mother of two, who completed a training course in tailoring, dress-design and business management. She now runs a home-based tailoring enterprise, employing five women and serving female clients, using her skills and knowledge to open doors for herself and others. Her journey exemplifies resilience, innovation and community empowerment even under challenging circumstances.

In Afghanistan’s complex context, DVV International and ANAFAE remain committed to the vision of lifelong learning for all, helping to turn SDG 4 (Quality Education) into real-life opportunities for individuals and communities.