Transformative learning and mind-change in rural Afghanistan

Abstract

This article presents the results of a quantitative/qualitative enquiry into ‘transformative learning’ and ‘mind-change’ dynamics among rural community representatives participating in the Government of Afghanistan's National Solidarity Program [NSP]: a community-driven, nationwide initiative to rehabilitate the country's infrastructure. Drawing on frameworks for ‘transformative learning’ proposed by Mezirow (1990) and Freire (1993), and ‘mind-change’ proposed by Gardner (2004), it is argued that NSP catalysed transformative development learning through (1) its responsiveness to the expressed needs and interests of project participants; (2) engagement of community representatives as active development partners; (3) delegation of project-management responsibility throughout all stages; (4) provision of social space for reflection and critical analysis; (5) opportunities to achieve project outcomes that are meaningful, attractive, and profitable; and (6) programme features compatible with the social and cultural realities of rural Afghanistan.

Keywords:

• Aid
• Gender and Diversity
• Governance and Public Policy
• Methods
• Southeast Asia

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Friedrich W. Affolter

Friedrich W. Affolter (corresponding author) served as Community Mobilisation Training Adviser of UNCHS Afghanistan's NSP Office 2002–2006. He is now Senior Civic Education Expert for UNDP Angola.

Katja Richter

Katja Richter served as Peace Building Adviser of German Development Services (DED), seconded to UNCHS Afghanistan from 2005 to 2007. She is now Project Manager for German Agro-Action's (GAA) NSP Programme in Nangahar.

Karimullah Afaq

Karimullah Afaq (Monitoring and Evaluation Officer). UNCHS Afghanistan Kabul Office.

Assadullah Daudzai

Assadullah Daudzai (Training Co-ordinator). UNCHS Afghanistan Kabul Office.

M. Taofiq Massood

M. Taofiq Massood (Core-Trainers). UNCHS Afghanistan Kabul Office.

Niamatullah Rahimi

Niamatullah Rahimi (Core-Trainers). UNCHS Afghanistan Kabul Office.

Ghotai Sahebian

Ghotai Sahebian (Gender Adviser). UNCHS Afghanistan Kabul Office.