In 2011 WCH has begun working with FWF, a school for hearing-impaired children in Kabul. Children and young people with a disability are often denied educational and other opportunities in Afghanistan. Shunned by adults they are frequently hidden away by their parents who think having a disabled child is a punishment of some kind. While FWF (along with a small number of other service providers) offers basic and high school education (grades 1 – 12) to a maximum of 320 children, there are no such facilities for pre-school children in Kabul or elsewhere.

Teaching social skills
WCH is supporting FWF in developing and implementing a programme that not only prepares pre-school children for grade 1, teaching them sign language, and some basic literacy and numeracy, but it also teaches them vital social skills. Many of these children have lived in silence for years, unable to communicate fully with family members, and denied the chance to form friendships with other children.

Familymembers involved
The programme team includes a social worker who assesses each child and develops a work plan to address their particular issues. She also works with families, as do the teachers, teaching them sign language and involving them in the classroom so they learn to communicate with their children. Parents also attend special sessions about child rights, the importance of using non-violent punishment, and recognizing the potential in their children. This part of the programme is intended to change attitudes and behaviour towards these children so they have the support they need to fulfil their true potential.

Academic, creative and vocational activities
FWF has been running the school since 1994. A total of 298 hearing-impaired children are currently enrolled in grades 1 - 12. The organization has trained a cadre of professionals and teachers who work with the children. In addition to academic subjects, children have the opportunity to participate in creative and vocational activities including art, dress-making, and carpentry. The school has full Ministry of Education accreditation and it is planned that the Ministry will assume responsibility for the school, hopefully by the end of 2012, thus ensuring long-term sustainability.


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