The American University of Afghanistan starts with the word "American" because it builds on the American system of higher education, which is increasingly being followed in high-quality universities throughout the world.

It ends with the word "Afghanistan" because, as well as being located in Afghanistan, it is an Afghan independent and private higher education institution. The word "Afghanistan" also means that the University is for the whole country, not only for Kabul. Regional and international students are welcome to apply for admission. In fact, educational inclusiveness and equity, without any racial, ethnic, sectarian, gender, linguistic, provincial and geographical discrimination are some of main objectives of the American University of Afghanistan.

Some have said that it is too early for this institution to be called a university. But we have already prepared plans for increasing our student enrollment and faculty recruitment; opening new undergraduate, graduate, and research programs; acquiring international accreditation; and building a new campus in a most strategic part of Kabul.

The American University of Afghanistan is a student-centered and non-ideological character-building institution in which tolerance and respect for different ideas, beliefs, cultural and spiritual values are respected. It is a merit-based institution, free of corruption, favoritism, nepotism, harassment, blackmail, or any action or behavior violating the Constitution of Afghanistan, the University laws and codes of conduct.

The students who graduate from the American University of Afghanistan will not only acquire a liberal arts-based education and quality specialization in their fields, they will also develop a more mature and sophisticated personality, a wiser world view, and a stronger sense of individual and social responsibility.

In order to develop advanced specializations and leadership qualities for the future of Afghanistan, the leadership, the Board of Trustees, the faculty and staff of the University, along with our other stakeholders, are all making their best efforts to turn the American University of Afghanistan into a model university in the region, a model of educational excellence, democratic pluralism, and academic quality.

Dr. Sharif Fayez
Founder and former President Pro Tem of the American University of Afghanistan
October, 2007 C.E./1386 A.P.