In Afghanistan
Nearly 4 million girls are denied the fundamental right to receive a secondary education, and the number of those who cannot access tertiary education institutions remains unknown.
In response
The Alekain Foundation, a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization led by educators, international development professionals, diplomats, and others with extensive experience with Afghanistan and its people, was founded to address this critical gap by providing girls access to quality secondary education. We offer accredited online high school education in partnership with Smart Schools International, and resources to help young women navigate their pathway to college.
How We Work
The Alekain Foundation exists to provide education to girls and young women in Afghanistan. In partnership with Smart Schools International, we offer:
- Free online high school education
- Technological suppor
- Peer mentoring programs
- English language development support
- College admissions guidance and mentorship so that girls have the best possible chance of transitioning to post-secondary education
Join us in creating a brighter future for girls and young women in Afghanistan.
Learn about our approach >
Mission
At Alekain, our mission is to create pathways for young women in Afghanistan to pursue high school education, earn a diploma through our partner, Smart Schools Internationals, and pursue pathways to college.
Vision
We envision a world where every girl can dream without limits — her aspirations nurtured and supported through comprehensive educational programs tailored to her needs. We want to create a more equitable future for Afghanistan’s women and girls.
Our Values
Innovation
Alekain is the first of its kind to understand the problem, formulate a rather innovative solution, and revive hopes and dreams among girls and women in Afghanistan.
Safety and Privacy
At Alekain, we strive to create an environment in which our students and community members feel heard, safe, respected, and supported.
Integrity and Accountability
At Alekain, we strive to achieve our missions and remain accountable to all of our interest-holders – our team, our students and their families, our donors, our trustees, staff, volunteers, collaborators, and the government.
Stewardship
At Alekain, we are committed to carefully stewarding all human, natural, and financial resources. We carefully use the time and talents of those working with Alekain and spend wisely the funds invested in our cause
Diversity
At Alekain, we celebrate, respect, and include students from all ethnicities, cultures, regions, and religious backgrounds in Afghanistan. Similarly, we take pride in the diversity of our community of volunteers, ambassadors, advisors, trustees, and staff members.
Sustainability
At Alekain, we believe it is important to recognize the value of our work by investing in our talent pool. This includes providing learning opportunities for volunteers and staff, as well as compensation and benefits that are adequate to sustain staff members and their families