This week, we spoke with one of male mentors about what motivated him to join Code to Inspire, his students’ progress, and the larger implications of the program for Afghanistan. Read on to learn more!

Tell us about yourself.

I’m 22 years old, and I study software engineering in the computer science department at Herat University.

What was the reason you joined CTI as a male mentor to teach girls coding?

I wanted to join a cause that helped the women of my country  solve many of the economy, security, and social problems they encounter every day.

Which programming languages and subjects are you teaching your students?

I am teach them how to make games with Unity Game Engine and the C# programming language.

As a man pursuing a career in tech, why do you think it is important for women in Afghanistan to learn to coding?

Due to security and familial restraints, women can’t go outside the city to work. I think through technology, they can make a good income much more easily than without it. Also learning programming skills can empower Afghan women to become financial independent.  

How do you see the progress of your students from the very first day until now?

I remember my first day at Code to Inspire some students didn’t have a lot of knowledge about programming, specially gaming. Now they can easily make their own games. They improve quickly and work very well.

If you want to share a message to people around the world about Afghanistan what it would be?

I hope that the skills I’m teaching these women will bring Afghanistan greater peace and security.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

Everyday I love coding more than the day before. Still, today I don’t love it as much I’ll love it tomorrow.