Imagine finding yourself suddenly fleeing from your homeland, only to discover that in your country of exile, you are prohibited from working. How would you survive such dire circumstances? Moreover, envision the grim reality of facing imprisonment, torture, or even execution if you were to return to your own country. This is the heartbreaking plight that our Afghan students and their families are currently enduring. We are profoundly grateful for your solidarity and generous support, which have been a truly meaningful early Eid gift for our girls in exile.

These courageous women are all students of Virtual School Australia, a commendable initiative by Australian volunteer educators (www.virtualschoolaustralia.com.au). Their situation has been exacerbated by recent rulings in their country of exile, which threaten to repatriate Afghan refugees by 31st March, exposing them to the dangers of the Taliban regime.

Under the Taliban's rule, women in Afghanistan have been stripped of their basic human rights, including the right to education and the freedom to work or move independently outside their homes. The urgency of their situation cannot be overstated.

Our efforts to save these students have garnered attention and support, as evidenced by coverage in Women’s Agenda (https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/aussie-teachers-helping-to-save-afghan-women-from-returning-to-violence-of-home-country/?fbclid=IwAR2r2l2Q1-0xvyhD2_DerT-ijMS6QZLN3nHYODUxgGK-lSfP1vBXUvR4EYo). However, much more needs to be done.

We are seeking donations to support these brave young women and their families in meeting their urgent needs, including food, shelter, medical care, and transportation. Virtual School Australia has taken proactive steps by applying for Humanitarian Visas (202).

The funds raised will be utilised transparently and responsibly, covering emergency expenses, medical bills, and potential travel costs to Australia if their visas are approved. Every dollar counts, and your contribution can make a meaningful difference in saving these girls' lives.

These courageous students bravely shared their stories at the 2025 Adelaide Fringe and these stories along with other stories will be presented at a virtual show for Australian, Indian, North American viewers. However, our girls' journey is filled with challenges, and they urgently need support to meet their basic needs such as food, Visa, shelter, medical care, and transportation. Virtual School Australia is actively involved in assisting these girls and offer two weekly classes for these girls.

Your donations will be utilised transparently and responsibly, covering essential expenses such as emergency costs, food, and medical bills. Each contribution, regardless of size, can significantly impact these girls' lives and provide them with hope and security.

To date, we have disbursed $10,664.57 to address immediate needs, including medical expenses, visa requirements, and securing accommodations for these students. These girls possess UNHCR refugee case numbers, and they have received acknowledgment (202) for their visa applications. However, their safety remains precarious, given the threats they face from the Taliban.

Your generous donation, no matter the amount, can help secure a brighter and safer future for these courageous students. They deserve to live without fear of persecution or violence. Please join us in this humanitarian endeavour to save lives and provide hope to those in need.