The American University of Afghanistan (AUAF) strives to provide the highest-quality education to more than 1,700 students. Maintaining partnerships with such prestigious institutions as Georgetown and Stanford, the American-style university has produced 29 Fulbright Scholars since its establishment in 2006.
In 2013, AUAF furthered its goal of preparing Afghans for professional leadership with the launch of the International Center for Afghan Women’s Economic Development (ICAWED). Facilitated by a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense Task Force for Business and Stability Operations, the center is located on AUAF’s campus in Kabul and encompasses a 5,500-square-meter state-of-the-art facility. It features an auditorium, two computer labs, several classrooms, a library, and a number of other academic resources. Additionally, the center includes a fitness center, prayer rooms, and a day care.
Construction concluded after 14 months, and ICAWED opened its doors on May 25, 2013. The center serves as a hub for organizations dedicated to empowering Afghan women. Working on behalf of both private and public sector institutions, it strives to coordinate and promote their initiatives in order to create an extensive network of women’s advocacy organizations.