What Is the American University in Kabul?

Earlier today there were reports of gunfire and explosions at the American University in Kabul, Afghanistan.

According to the New York Times, “Afghan security forces arrived at the scene of the well-guarded campus in the western part of the capital, but a number of people were apparently stuck inside the compound.”

The school is the nation’s first non-profit higher education institution, boasting a student population of over 1,100 students and distinguishing itself as being, “modeled on American curriculum and standards.” The Mission, Vision and Values statement of the school states that it, “prepares leaders to meet the needs of Afghanistan and the region.”

The technical capacity of the sprawling campus is equipped with brand new facilities and classrooms, with education programs in law, social science, government, international relations, entrepreneurship and business.

“The university is committed to playing an active role in the extension of educational services to the people, agencies, businesses, and organizations of Afghanistan,” the AUAF site continues. The school is not unlike most American college campuses with its infrastructure and opportunities for growth; students have on-campus Writing and Math Resource Centers at their disposal, both graduate and undergrad curriculums, and a full athletic center called the Michelle Bayat Gymnasium that for sports like basketball, soccer, and volleyball.

Today, that school is under attack. The story is breaking and we will update as more information is known.

Watch highlights from the 2016 commencement ceremonies of AUAF via the school’s YouTube page.

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