Consider for a moment the life of a child born in one of the remote, mountainous communities of Central Asia. From her first days, she carries within her limitless potential. Yet, because of where she was born, the path before her is full of obstacles. Many children in her community, especially girls, have little access to early learning experiences to nurture their growing minds. When she becomes old enough to begin school, poverty, distance, and cultural norms will often limit her chances of attending. If her parents do enroll her into school, there is a good chance she won’t stay in the classroom beyond 8th grade, even though her dreams soar as high as the surrounding peaks.
As this child grows, so too do the barriers she faces. Women around her are denied the chance to learn to read, to earn an income, or to make their own choices about their lives. This is not because they lack talent or determination, but because opportunity is out of reach. This remains the daily reality for millions of girls and women, and for the families and communities who depend on them, across the regions Central Asia Institute serves.
CAI believes in this child’s power to shape a different future. We envision communities where every girl and boy can learn, grow, and lead; where education brings dignity, independence, and hope. By expanding access to learning, we help unlock the potential that already exists within each child. In doing so, we strengthen families, transform communities, and champion lasting change for generations to come.
To advance education and livelihood skills, especially for girls and women, in remote and mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan.
We envision a world in which women and girls have the education and skills to unlock their full potential and contribute to a better, brighter future for themselves and their families, communities, and countries.
