Female Intern Succeeds

“I want to bring about change in my government. I have received offers from the private-sector, but I am willing to sacrifice a
“I want to bring about change in my government. I have received offers from the private-sector, but I am willing to sacrifice a higher salary for a chance to implement important rules and principles and change the environment on the government side.” — Am
USAID/EGGI
USAID supports the development of women in government positions
3 DECEMBER 2011 | KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
 
Motivated. Dedicated. Determined to make a difference in the government of Afghanistan. These are just a few words that describe Amina Ahmady, a former intern with the USAID-funded Women in Government internship program. Ahmady’s journey from intern to full-time employee with the Government of Afghanistan is inspirational to other Afghan women seeking to follow her lead.
 
Upon graduating with an economics degree from Kabul University in March 2010, Ahmady accepted a six month internship at the Ministry of Finance, where she developed technical skills in insurance property, casualty, and claims. Her hard work, dedication, and immediate grasp of operations spurred her to take on greater responsibilities. “Due to my expertise and knowledge, I was asked to conduct training courses for other staff at the ministry on insurance issues.” She points to her experience in facilitating trainings as a key achievement during her internship.
 
After successfully completing her internship, Ahmady accepted a full-time management position at the Ministry of Finance, where she oversees two advisors in revenue forecasting and serves as a special advisor to the Deputy Minister of Customs.
 
The internship program provides qualified female university graduates with the opportunity to gain functional knowledge and experience working with government institutions, ultimately leading to long-term employment opportunities. To date, 43 interns have been placed in positions throughout the Afghan government in fields related to economic policy and private sector development. All of the interns are highly motivated and possess a strong desire to work in government. The program boasts an 85 percent job placement rate following graduation.
 
“My experience in the internship program has affected my career both qualitatively and quantitatively. The internship affords women a platform to begin their careers. It is a very good opportunity to gain experience and build new skills in the office environment,” said Ahmady.