Afghan warriors trade in their Kalashnikovs for computers

Kunduz, September 3, 2004 - Afghan warriors are trading in their AK-47s for computers, setting aside the conflict that has beset their country for a generation. In Kunduz in the north of the country, former militiamen and army soldiers are being introduced to civilian life by foreign instructors, both military and civilian, who have been working since October last year to set up courses in computer and other skills.

The DED is currently supporting projects with funding and with German experts, and a pilot project training around 200 men aged between 19 and 36 is just coming to an end.Re-education programs have a chance in this new environment, and the United Nations has promised assistance to fighters who turn in their weapons and register for training. They are allowed to go home to their villages and apply for funding for their small farms or to enter a training course. Those who are able to read and write and have a skill have the opportunity to enroll in a two-week course to learn business skills, including the use of a computer. In addition there are courses in construction work lasting several months available at local building sites.