STEP-UP

Afghanistan’s higher education system has many pressing problems and is still rebuilding after years of conflict and destruction. According to the National Higher Education Strategic Plan (NHESP: 2010-2014), outdated curricula, under-qualified faculty members, lack of adequate classrooms, laboratories, and information technology, and under-resourced libraries are among the most significant issues the system faces. An inefficient, centralized ministry structure prevents public universities from managing programs and finances. Ultimately, the university system lacks sufficient academic programs and capacity to prepare qualified workers with the relevant knowledge and skills to meet the employment needs of modern business, industry, and government.