Halima Safi was born and raised in a rural vil lage in Dara-e-Pech district of Kunar province. She lives with her parents, three sisters, and two younger brothers. Her elderly father can no longer work and is unable to support the family financially. As an unmarried young woman, Halima has taken on the role of the sole breadwinner through her job as a CBE teacher. Halima’s Father– Mohammad Agha states, “I may be old and weak, but when I see my daughter going to school with books in hand, I feel strength in my heart. She has become the hope of our home.”

Halima shares, “For years I stood at the edge of a dream but never knew how to step forward. I knew the girls needed a teacher, but I needed a chance.” For several years, Halima looked for ways to begin teaching the girls in her village. When the original teacher of the CBE class relocated and resigned, Halima saw her opportunity. She applied and was selected through a transparent and competitive recruitment process. Being one of the few educated girls in her community, Halima’s role was vital. Supporting her meant not only empowering her personally but also giving hope to many girls who would otherwise remain out of school.
Shura Member – Haji Gulab expresses, “When we saw Halima step into the classroom, we realized that our daughters could also rise. She’s not just teaching letters—she’s teaching hope.” With the support of SSEOA, Halima received professional training, teaching materials, and ongoing mentorship. She quickly became a confident, capable, and respected teacher. Her classroom is now a space where young girls feel safe, motivated, and encouraged to learn.

Halima adds, “I don’t want the next generation of girls to wait as long as I did. I want them to grow up with books, not barriers.” Her dedication has inspired many families in the village to enroll their daughters in school. Her success is gradually changing mindsets, giving parents confidence and pride in educating girls. Student – Mariam, age 9 says with joy, “Teacher Halima says we are strong and smart. I want to be like her when I grow up.” Halima has earned respect and admiration not only from her students, but from the entire community. She has turned her personal struggle into collective progress—breaking barriers and transforming lives through the power of education.
Halima concludes, “I used to be just a housewife. Now, I am a teacher—working for a better future for others.” She expresses her gratitude to the SSEOA and the supporters of the CBE program. “My family and I thank you for your kind support to our community. This program has brought real change. We hope it continues, because its impact is deep, lasting, and truly needed.”