The Reading Circles of Kabul

Kabuli high school students are participating in "reading circles" to promote English-language literacy, supported by AUAF’s outreach program.

In a reading circle, students read and discuss various topics with a native-speaking English instructor from AUAF. In November 2008, Marefat High School, with the cooperation of AUAF, created three reading circles for students in the 11th and 12th grades.

"The students are enthusiastic and insightful," said the AUAF instructor overseeing the program. "These young men and women are eager to learn, discuss, and make their perspectives understood."

Every week, over 50 students participate in Marefat’s reading circle. Topics range from current events, Aesop’s Fables, ghost stories and how students can help the environment. In the discussion portion of the circle, students are encouraged to exchange ideas while respecting one another’s points of view.

Senior students who will soon graduate from high school are beginning to think seriously about their education or career paths. Students who graduate with significant English-language skills are well-placed to find meaningful employment with government, one of the many NGOs or international organizations operating in Afghanistan, or to continue their education at a private, English-language institution of higher education such as AUAF.

English-language literacy is on the rise in Afghanistan. It would be difficult to estimate how many Afghans are attending English-language training, either through organizations such as the British Council, AUAF, or through any of the innumerable small private schools that teach English. Instruction by native English speakers with English as a Second/Foreign Language background is highly valued.

Marefat is one of many schools in the Kabul School District. It is located in the Dashi Barchi area of Kabul.

AUAF supports the creation of more reading circles. For more information, contact jabrongers@auaf.edu.af.