The American Space-Vahdat Extension, a program implemented by American Councils in partnership with and through the generous funding of Spirit of America, supports the Afghan refugee community in Tajikistan through youth leadership, work readiness, and educational programs. These initiatives aim to equip Afghan youth with essential skills and knowledge for their personal and professional development.
Since its inception, more than 1,870 girls and boys have participated in long and short-term programs through the American Space-Vahdat Extension, including the following courses:
- Explore and Learn: Engaging educational experiences.
- Public Speaking: Building confidence and communication skills.
- College Preparation: Guiding students through the college application process.
- Vocational Skills and Workforce Readiness: Preparing youth for the job market.
- Presentation and Seminar: Enhancing presentation abilities.
- English Teaching Assistance: Improving English language proficiency.
- Reading and Listening Enhancement: Strengthening literacy skills.
- Youth Professional Skill Building: Developing professional skills.
- Robotics Clubs: Introducing technology and engineering concepts.
Training of Trainers
In addition to youth programs, the American Space-Vahdat Extension conducted a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) for volunteers who lead the programming on June 22-23 at the American Space Dushanbe. This “Leadership, Effective Communication, and Teaching Methodology in Volunteerism” event brought together 29 volunteers. The training equipped volunteers with essential skills and renewed their enthusiasm for volunteerism, preparing them to make impactful contributions within their communities and at the community center in Vahdat.
Center for Global Leadership Session
Recently, Dr. Sam Potolicchio, Executive Director of American Councils’ Center for Global Leadership, hosted a workshop at the American Space-Vahdat Extension. This session was an exciting opportunity for volunteers and alumni of USG Afghan programming. Dr. Potolicchio led a stimulating discussion on the topic “How to Make Better Decisions in a Complicated World.” Over 30 participants attended, including volunteers, U.S. alumni, and teachers from the partner organization Information Technology and Communication Centre (ITCC). The discussion and presentation by Dr. Potolicchio were exceptionally engaging, leaving participants not only equipped with essential knowledge and skills but also inspired and motivated to apply these insights in practical settings.
Since October 2021, American Councils has delivered American Space-like youth programs at the ITCC in Vahdat, where thousands of Tajik and Afghan students learn English, technology, and public speaking skills. Funded by Spirit of America, with the support of the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan, the program also provides transportation for youth in Vahdat to attend regular programs in person at American Space Dushanbe.