Conversation with Minister of Advanced Education - Minister Rajan Sawhney
The Afghan Women’s Circle conversation with Minister Rajan Sawhney on January 18, 2025, was a significant moment for addressing the challenges faced by Afghan women in Canada. The most prominent concern raised by the women was the lack of career language skills, as well as limited English proficiency and access to digital literacy, which hinder their ability to pursue higher education and career opportunities. In response, the women requested the establishment of English and computer training classes as essential tools for empowering them to overcome these barriers and access the education system.
Minister Rajan Sawhney, drawing from her previous experience as the Minister of Multiculturalism and Immigration, expressed her strong commitment to supporting the Afghan community. She recalled her efforts in 2023 to assist Afghan newcomers with the launch of a one-year Settlement, Integration, and Language Program and reassured the participants that she would continue to advocate for such initiatives, emphasizing her ongoing dedication to addressing the educational and career needs of the Afghan community.
This open and constructive dialogue has set a foundation for future collaboration, with the shared goal of providing Afghan women with the necessary skills to fully integrate into Canadian society and access educational pathways for their professional and personal growth.