Amina Sultani and Masuma Hakimi
Teachers in the Midwifery Bachelor Degree Programme, Kabul Medical University
We were born in Iran as refugees. Our families left Afghanistan 35 years ago during the Soviet occupation. After we finished our education we moved back to serve Afghanistan. When we first moved to Afghanistan we worked as midwives in different capacities but not at a university. We heard about the recruitment process at Kabul Medical University and applied. It was essential to have a midwifery bachelor degree and we both did. We had to pass an exam and present our work to a panel. It was a difficult process, but we were selected. We are proud of being part of this new initiative led by the Ministry of Higher Education and Kabul Medical University. Maternal mortality and morbidity rates in the country are high and there is a need to improve the quality of care. Currently Afghanistan has around 4,000 midwives who have passed two years of education. With this bachelor degree, they now have the opportunity to increase their knowledge so they upgrade their skills.
Aroya
Midwifery Bachelor Degree Programme student, Kabul Medical University
My first days at university were challenging. The way of teaching is different from high school. I am enjoying my time here and I really like the environment and my studies. My family always encouraged me to study; they wanted me to become a doctor, but I want to become a midwifery teacher once I finish my bachelor degree.
Nasrin
Midwifery Bachelor Degree Programme student, Kabul Medical University
It is because of my family that I am here. Especially because of my father, he really encouraged me to study. I am very grateful to my family. Although they wanted me to study medicine, I chose to be a midwife. I chose to help Afghan women, because they really need us. Afghanistan needs many changes in many areas. When it comes to health care, I will do whatever I can for women and children.
Yalda
Midwifery Bachelor Degree Programme student, Kabul Medical University
Lack of knowledge and tradition are the key barriers for women accessing reproductive health services. For instance, mothers-in-law will say that they delivered their babies at home and that they didn't need to go to hospital. They will ask their daughters-in-law why they want to go to a hospital. I have witnessed the difficulties women face in safely delivering babies. When my cousin was pregnant we called the ambulance but it didn't arrive on time. She started bleeding and her child died. Happily she survived. I am from Faryab province. This is the first time I have left my home and family. Once I finish, I want to move back to Faryab. There are a lot of midwives with diplomas there, but no-one with a bachelor degree. I will be the first in my province.
