SG EDUCATION GROUP IN AFGHANISTAN

The 21st to 24th of September marked a very poignant step in the SG Academy endeavors as I brought TVET to Afghanistan. The initial anticipation was dotted with a mixture of curiosity and concern from family, friends and well-wishers but the burning desire in me to continue the efforts of the Blue Ocean strategy prevailed.

As I set foot in Kabul, which was once a Mughal Empire, I was filled with a feeling of trepidation yet overwhelmed by the warm hospitality of the people and their humility. Here was a country where the youth hunger for skills knowledge and education and show keen interest in building their nation. Yet, because of reasons which include travel ban and safety worries, no certified TVET partner could come in and unfold structures, useful in providing for this.

Throughout my stay, armed security personnel escorted me. These are military trained security personnel. Safety was priority. Welfare of life was still the sanguine strategy. We worked and trained in vaulted hotels. The after-training itinerary also took place in vaulted settings to ensure my safekeeping. To these people who provided me with such care, I salute their bravery and commitment. For I came to share my knowledge, and their safeguarding me goes to show how much of value and respect went into my presence in the hope of changing the lives of the local youths.

There were moments where I reflected on the difference of lifestyles we lead in Malaysia as compared to the people in Afghanistan. Uncertainty is the word to describe their lives, yet I witnessed smiles and hope in the faces of the people around me. With the advent of TVET through the SG Academy Group, I am confident that things will change and Afghans will lead peaceful lives again. The Blue Ocean Strategy is allowing me the privilege to share, support and build on TVET at an international level. To this I am privileged and honoured as I am able to achieve what I set out to do. TVET is my passion – The SG Education group is meant to be the TVET pilot for the development of nations and it is happening right here, right now.