Arzu Studio Hope creates oasis of opportunity for Afghan women

BAMYAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan – A little girl listens to the lessons during a class at the Arzu Studio Hope compound in the Dragon Valley, west of the town of Bamyan. Women enrolled in the program are paid higher-than-average wages for their work weaving rugs, and they, their children, and any female in their household are required to attend literacy classes. The women also have access to day care for their children, a laundry, a kitchen, and a garden where they can grow their own vegetables and herbs. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Ken Scar, 7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)