Introduction
Hafizullah Khaled, an Afghan-Austrian humanitarian, peace activist, and writer, has dedicated his life to supporting the vulnerable children of Afghanistan. As the founder of the Help Afghan School Children Organization (HASCO) based in Vienna, Austria, Khaled has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of Afghan children, especially those who are orphans, displaced, or otherwise disadvantaged. His life and work embody a commitment to peace, education, and social welfare.
Help Afghan School Children Organization (HASCO)
Khaled established HASCO as a non-profit, non-political organization that assists Afghan families and returnees in sending their children to school. The organization’s mission is rooted in the belief that education is a powerful tool for fostering peace and stability in Afghanistan. Through HASCO, Khaled has focused on creating opportunities for children to access education, thereby contributing to the future of a peaceful Afghanistan.
Visit the full category of Pashto poetry
Literary Contributions and Peace Advocacy
Khaled is a prolific writer with numerous articles and poems published in both Pashto and Persian, the official languages of Afghanistan. His poetry spreads messages of peace and advocates for the rights of disadvantaged children. Some of his well-known works include “Children the Flowers of our Garden” (Pashto), “Curse on War” (Persian), “Why This Continued War?” (Persian), and “My Dream” (Pashto). These poems have been widely shared on Afghan websites and in publications, resonating with many who are affected by the ongoing conflict.
In 2009, Khaled published a collection of poems titled “The Message of Peace.” Released on the eve of the International Day of Peace, this collection emphasizes the importance of peace and stability in war-torn Afghanistan. Khaled donated the proceeds from the book to support the education of Afghan children, furthering his commitment to their welfare.
A Career Rooted in Peace Efforts
Khaled holds a Licentiate’s degree in Law and Political Science from Kabul University. He served as a liaison officer for the United Nations Good Offices Mission in Afghanistan and Pakistan (UNGOMAP) and the Office of the UN Secretary-General in Afghanistan and Pakistan (OSGAP) under the leadership of Benon Sevan in the late 1980s. His role was to help facilitate a peaceful transfer of power to a neutral interim government in Afghanistan. Although the plan ultimately faced obstacles, Khaled’s early involvement in such peace-building efforts was foundational to his lifelong dedication to humanitarianism.
List of Pashto-Language Poets
Recognition and Continued Activism
In July 2007, Khaled was named “Person of the Month” by the University-Community Partnership for Social Action Research Network. This recognition highlighted his work in promoting education and assisting impoverished children in Afghanistan. He joined the ranks of other notable activists, including Nobel Peace Prize winners Shirin Ebadi, Muhammad Yunus, and Wangari Maathai.
In 2016, Khaled published another book, “Pen & Gun,” a collection of Pashto and Dari poems. This book continues his advocacy for peace and non-violence, urging young Afghans to embrace education over armed conflict. Khaled hopes to inspire a generation of Afghans to pursue a peaceful future through education and cultural awareness.
Beyond Humanitarian Work: A Guinness World Record
In addition to his work as a writer and peace activist, Khaled has a passion for growing flowers and trees. On October 17, 2020, he set a Guinness World Record for cultivating the world’s tallest rose bush, measuring 8.705 meters. Khaled views the rose bush as a symbol of beauty, friendship, and love, believing that nature can serve as a powerful reminder of resilience and the pursuit of peace.
Conclusion
Hafizullah Khaled’s dedication to promoting peace and education, as well as his commitment to helping Afghan children, has made a lasting impact. Through HASCO, his literary contributions, and his active involvement in international peace efforts, Khaled exemplifies the power of perseverance and compassion. His life’s work continues to inspire others to advocate for a peaceful, educated, and hopeful future for Afghanistan.
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