Introduction

Thank you for your interest in participating in this research study conducted by Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT).

The purpose of this study is to better understand how restrictions on girls’ education have affected the lives, well-being, and future aspirations of Afghan girls and young women.

If you agree to participate, you will be invited to take part in an interview. During the interview, you may be asked about:

• Your educational experiences, goals, and aspirations before the education restrictions.
• How you felt when you first learned about the restrictions and how your feelings may have changed over time.
• How exclusion from education has affected your emotional well-being and mental health.
• The people, resources, or opportunities that have helped you cope and remain hopeful.
• Your hopes, aspirations, and plans for the future.
• Your views on the types of support, opportunities, or programmes that could improve the well-being and future prospects of girls and young women affected by educational restrictions.

• Privacy and Confidentiality

• Your participation is completely voluntary.
• You may choose not to answer any question or stop the interview at any time.
• Information you share will be kept confidential and used only for research purposes.
• Your name and personal information will not be included in any report or publication without your permission.
• If the interview is audio-recorded, the recording will only be accessed by the research team and stored securely.