The Karez Association has established a place for learning — a beacon of hope — in Kandahar for the children who will shape Afghanistan’s future.
With the support of the Japanese government’s Grassroots Grant Assistance, a school was built in the Haji Aziz district (formerly Ansari Mena) of Kandahar City. Overcoming numerous challenges, the long-awaited school building was finally completed in 2009.
For children living through times overshadowed by conflict, this school is more than just a building.
It represents the joy of learning and a gateway to the future.
From this school standing on the sandy land, new dreams continue to grow even today.
Current Haji Nika School
The completed school building was handed over to the local government, creating a new place of learning for children in the community. However, shortly thereafter, deteriorating security in the area forced the school to close temporarily.
Even so, the desire for education never ceased. By 2010, security gradually improved, and in September of that year, the school was finally reopened.
Since then, many residents have moved into the area, and the number of students attending the school has increased year by year.
As of October 2025, a total of 1,926 students are enrolled: 1,325 boys from grades 1 to 12, and 601 girls from grades 1 to 6.
Within the limited classrooms, children attend classes in three shifts, continuing their hopeful learning that connects them to the future.
There is a shortage of classrooms,
and many students are using tents for lessons
At Haji Nika School, creating a proper learning environment is essential to improving the quality of education. To ensure that children can attend school safely and comfortably, the Karez Association launched a toilet construction project in November 2012.
Improving sanitation is a crucial issue directly linked to students’ continued attendance. Thanks to extensive support and effort, eight toilets—four for boys and four for girls were successfully completed by the end of February 2013.
Being able to learn safely in a clean environment is the first step in education and a vital “foundation” for nurturing hope for the future.
In 2010, as security improved, the previously closed school reopened.
The classrooms were once again filled with the smiles and voices of children, bringing back the vibrancy of a true place of learning.
Even girls who previously had limited access to education now have the opportunity to learn and have started attending classes. With notebooks and pens provided through support, the children happily head to their new lessons.
The reopened school has become a symbol of hope for the community, marking a tangible step toward a brighter future for the children.